I LIBRARY OF CONGKKSS. | 

<ljop. H' 

I Mo. I 

•> •;• 

I UNITED STATES OE AMEBICA. I 



I 



SUPPLEMENT 

TO THK 

TEMPLARS' CHART: 



CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING 



THIRTY INEFFABLE DEGREES, 



WITH TUEIK 



EMBLEMS & ILLUSTRATIONS, 



SECRET MASTER. 

PERFECT MASTER. 

INTIMATE SECRETARY. 

PROVOST AND JUDGE. 

INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING. 

ELECT OF NINE. 

ILLUSTRIOUS ELECTED OF FIFTEEN. 

SUBLIME KNIGHT ELECT. 

GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT. 

KING SOLOMON'S ROYAL ARCH. 

GRAND ELECT, PERFE( T & SUBLIME 

MASON. 
KNIGHTS OF THE EAST & SWORD 
PRINCE OF JERUSALEM. 
KNIGHTS OF THE EAST AND WEST. 
KNIGHTS OF ROSE CROIX D' H. 



GRAND PONTIFF PRUSSIAN KNIGHT 
GRAND MASTER OF AIL SYMBOUG 

LODGES. 
PATRIARCH NOACH1TE. 
PRINCE OF L1BANUS. 
CHIEF OF THE TABERNACLE. 
PRINCE OF THE TABERNACLE. 
KNIGHTS OF 'I HE RRAZEX SERPENT 
PRINCE OF MERCY. 
COMMANDER OF THE '1EMPLE. 
KNIGHTS OF THE SUN. 
PATRIARCH OF THE CRUSADES. 
K-H GRAND ELECT KNIGHT. 
GRAND INQUISITOR COMMANDER. 
SUBLIME PRINCE OF THE ROYAL 

SECRET. 



SUPREME COUNCIL OF GRAND INSPECTORS GENERAL 

OF THE 3HD DEGREE. 

SECOND EDITION, WITH ADDITIONS AND EMENDATIONS, 

^7 

*^TZ-i BY JEREMY L. CROSS. 

t-/ > *TdV.\ PH».'. 1KBIV, GES.V OF THK ?3fc bKORS£, ASS ?AST OftAKB COM 



NEW YORK i 
'J 858, 







\ 






Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the Year One Thousand 
Eight Hundred and Fifty-three, by JEREMY L. CROSS, in the 

Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the 
Southern District of New York. 



THE INEFFABLE DEGREES. 



The Ineffable Degrees of Masonry are of modern 
origin. Most of them were created in France, about 
the year 1700, or soon after Masonry was revived in 
that country by Masons who had emigrated thither from 
Scotland. The language of history concerning them is 
as follows : 

" The attachment of the French people for innovation 
and external finery, produced the most unwarrantable 
alterations upon the principles and ceremonies of the 
Order, a number of new degrees were created, the office- 
bearers of the Craft were arrayed in the most splendid 
and costly attire, the Lodges were transformed into de- 
bating clubs, where the most extravagant opinions were 
discussed in theology and political economy, which was 
hostile to true religion and sound government. In other 
countries of the continent, similar innovations, in a 
greater or less degree, prevailed. 

" These dangerous innovations have not the smallest 
connection with the principles of ancient Free Masonry. 
They are unnatural excrescences formed by a warm 
imagination, and fostered by the interference of design- 
ing men. 

" The purity of Free Masonry in our own country, as 
contained in the first nine degrees, has no doubt had an 
auspicious tendency in promoting its prosperity. But 
Germany, as well as France, has been the prolific paren* 



6 templars' chart. 

of a thousand devices intended to sport with publio 
credulity, and calculated to degrade the simplicity and 
beauty of our Society. The great landmarks have been 
broken down, the genuine degrees of Free Masonry 
have been considered as initiative steps into more ele- 
vated orders and the more sublime mysteries with a 
view of gain, or gratifying that taste for frivolous parade 
which is the natural companion of frivolous minds. 

" Thus those numerous degrees and orders have been 
invented, as connected with and more exalted than Free 
Masonry. They are decorated with stars, and ribbons, 
and garters, and other insignia, all calculated to mislead 
the weak, the frivolous, and the vain ; they are attended 
with all the pomp, and mystery, and solemnity which 
the imagination can invent ; they are imposed upon 
their credulous votaries as the offspring of heroic achieve- 
ments, as the establishment of sages who administered 
before the oracles of God ; or as .the invention of heaven- 
endowed philosophers possessed of all the secrets of na- 
ture, of the immortal elixir, the philosopher's stone, and 
the powers of invisibility and ubiquity." 

Thus we may consider the character of the Ineffable 
Degrees : 

" In this country, ancient Masonry, as used and taught 
in the first nine degrees since its first establishment, has 
existed in its pure, unsophisticated state, its venerable 
simplicity has not been invaded by the rude hands of 
modern barbarians, its sublime doctrines have not been 
sullied by the ridiculous fables of wretched adventurers, 
nor have its beautiful ceremonies been ridiculed by the 
empirical parade and disgusting mummery of recreant 
cowans." 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 7 

The Ineffable Degrees are in no wise connected with 
Ancient Craft Masonry, as practiced in our blue Lodges, 
or the Chapter degrees, or the Council of Royal and 
Select Masters, nor have they- any connection with the 
Orders of Knighthood, i. e., of the Red Cross Knights, 
Knights Templars, or Knights of Malta, as conferred in 
this country, in England, or in Scotland ; yet they bor- 
row largely of all the emblems and illustrations of An- 
cient Craft Masonry. 

In the introduction of the emblems and illustrations, 
we have consulted the mode of conferring these degrees 
both in France and Germany, and as both of those 
countries are legal parents of the degrees, it is no more 
than fair that they both should have a chance of pre- 
senting their own views of these matters. We have 
also had access to the Egyptian rite, and their illustra- 
tion of the ninety degrees whereby we have enriched the 
degrees as conferred in France and Germany. 

One object we have in view in giving this brief descrip- 
tion of the Ineffable Degrees, and their illustrations and 
emblems, is that the craft generally may read, examine, 
and judge for themselves of the utility and general bear- 
ing of the degrees, and place that estimated value upon 
them which they may judge them entitled to in the side 
of their Order. Eor ourselves, we have ever considered 
them of no real value, and many of them too trifling 
and inconsistent with truth and history, both sacred and 
profane. 

A brief but correct history of the Supreme Grand 
Council of the 33d degree, as constituted in the United 
States, may be found at the close of this volume. 

15 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 

SECRET MASTER. 

The Lodge of Secret Masters should be spread with 
black and strewed with tears. The Master represents 
Solomon coming to the Temple to elect seven Experts. 
He is styled the Most Powerful. 

There is only one Warden, who is called Adoniram, 
after him who had the inspection of the workmanship 
done at Mount Libanus. He was the first made Secret 
Master. 

Solomon holds a sceptre in his hand ; he stands in 
the East before a triangular altar, upon which is a crown 
and some olive and laurel leaves. Adoniram, the In- 
spector, stands in the West. 

The first officer is decorated with a blue ribbon, from 
the right shoulder to the left hip, to which hangs a tri- 
angle. The second officer is decorated with a white 
ribbon, bordered with black, in a triangular form, and 
an ivory key suspended therefrom with a figure of Z 
upon it. 

All the other Brethren are decorated in the same 
manner, with white aprons and gloves, the strings of the 
aprons black, the flap of the apron is blue with a golden 
eye upon it. This Lodge should be enlightened by 
eighty-one candles, distributed by nine times nine. 



10 templars' chart. 

A candidate, after beiug strictly examined by the In- 
spector, who must vouch for his qualifications, is thus 
addressed by the Most Powerful representative of the 
King: 

Brother, — You have hitherto only seen the thick veil 
that covers the S. S. of God's Temple, your fidelity, 
zeal and constancy have gained you the favor I now 
grant you, of showing you our treasure and introducing 
you in the secret place. 

He is then invested with the ribbon, the crown of 
laurel and olives by the Most Powerful, who thus ad- 
dresses him : 

My Brother — I receive you as Secret Master, and 
give you rank among the Levites. This laurel, the em- 
blem of victory, is to remind you of the conquest you 
are to gain over your passions. The olive is the symbol 
of that peace and union which ought to reign among us. 
It belongeth to you to deserve the favor, that you may 
be enabled one day to arrive in the secret place, to con- 
template the Pillar of Beauty. I'decorate you with the 
ivory key, hung to a white and black ribbon, as a sym- 
bol of your fidelity, innocence and discretion. 

The apron and gloves are to be marks of the candor 
of all Secret Masters, in the number of which you have 
deserved to be introduced. In this quality, my Brother, 
you are to become the faithful guardian of the S. S., 
and I put you in the number of 7 to be one of the con 
ductors of the works which are rising to the divinity. 
The eye upon your apron is to remind you to have a 
careful watch over the conduct of the Craft in general. 

The Lodge is closed by the mysterious number. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 11 



PERFECT MASTER. 



' The Lodge of Perfect Masters is hung with green- 
tapestry on eight columns, four on each side, placed at 
equal distances, to be illuminated with sixteen lights 
placed at the four cardinal points. A table before the 
canopy covered with black. The R. W. and Respecta- 
ble Master represents the noble Adoniram, being the 
first that was elected S. M., because Solomon chose him 
first of the seven. He commanded the works of the 
Temple before II. A. arrived at Jerusalem, and after- 
wards had the inspection of the works at Mount Liba- 
nus. He is decorated with the ornaments of Perfection, 
and is a Prince of Jerusalem with those decorations. 
He occupies the place of Solomon, in the East under 
the canopy. 

There is only one Warden, who represents Stockin in 
the function of an Inspector, with the ornaments of his 
highest degrees which he received in the West. 

The assistants being at least Perfect Masters, ought 
tcr be decorated with a large green ribbon hung to the 
neck, with a jewel suspended thereto, being a compass 
extended to sixty degrees. 

The brethren all have aprons of white leather with 
green flaps ; on the middle of the apron must be em- 
broidered a square stone surrounded by three circles, 
with the letter P in the centre. 

After a candidate is duly examined in the proficiency 
he has made in the foregoing degree, he is regularly 
introduced, and is thus addressed by the M. P. : 

My Brother, — It is my desire to draw you from your 
vicious life, and by the favor I have received from the 
15* 



12 TEMPLARS CHART. 

most powerful of beings, I raise you to the degree of 
Perfect Master, on condition that you strictly adhere to 
what shall be presented to you by our laws. 

The ceremonies, &c, of this degree were originally 
established as a grateful tribute of respect to the memory 
of a departed worthy Brother. 

The Lodge is closed by four times four 

INTIMATE SECRETARY. 

The Lodge of I. S. is furnished with black hangings^ 
and represents the hall of audience of Solomon. It 
should be enlightened with twenty-seven lights, in three 
candlesticks of nine branches each, placed E. W. and S. 

This Lodge consists of two persons only; who repre- 
sent S. and H. K. of T. They are covered with blue 
mantles, lined with ermine, with crowns on their heads, 
sceptres in their hands, and seated at a table, on which 
are placed two naked swords, a roll of parchment, and 
a death's head. 

All the rest of the brethren are considered only as 
Perfect Masters, and are termed the Guards. They 
should have white aprons, lined and embroidered with a 
blood color, with strings of the same ; and ribbons of 
the same color round their necks, to which must be sus- 
pended, hanging on the breast, a solid triangle. 

Charge to a new made Intimate Secretary. 

" My Brother, — I receive you an Intimate Secretary, 
on your promise to be faithful to the Order in which 
you have just now entered. We hope, Brother, that 
your fidelity will be proof to every trial ; and that this 
sword, with which we arm you, will defend you from 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 13 

the attacks of those who may try to extort from you 
those secrets which we are now about to confer upon 
you." 



Solomon had agreed with the king of Tyre, in return 
for the materials from Mount Lebanon, and those drawn 
from the quarries of Tyre, made use of in constructing 
the Temple (in part payment of which he had already 
furnished him with a measure of oil, honey and wheat,) 
to have given him a province in Galilea, of thirty cities, 
immediately after the temple was completed. 

A year had elapsed before this was complied with on 
the part of Solomon; and when Hiram went to visit 
this newly acquired territory, he found the lands poor, 
the people rude, uncultivated, and of bad morals; and 
that the keeping of it would be attended with more ex- 
pense, than profit. He therefore went in person to Solo- 
mon, to complain of the deceit. Being" arrived, he 
made his entry through the guards in the cour-t, and 
went hastily to the king's apartment. 

The countenance of the king of Tyre was so expres- 
sive of anger, as he entered, one of Solomon's favorites, 
named Joabert, perceived it, and, apprehensive of the 
consequence, followed him to the door to listen. H. 
observed him, ran and seized upon him, and delivered 
him into the custody of the guards ; however, by the 
intercession of Solomon^ (who represented that Joabert 
was, of all those about the temple, most attached to 
him, and that his intentions could not have been evil,) 
Hiram agreed to pardon him ; and, before they parted, 
renewed their former friendship, and concluded a treaty 



14 templars' chart. 

of perpetual alliance, which was signed by them, and to 
which Joabert was Intimate Secretary. 
This Lodge is closed by three times nine. 

PROVOST AND JUDGE. 

This Lodge is adorned with red, and lighted by five 
great lights ; one in each corner, and one in the centre. 
The Master is placed in the East, under a blue canopy, 
surrounded with stars, and is styled Thrice Illustrious. 
He represents Tito Prince Harodim,the eldest of the P. 
M., and I. S. first grand warden, and inspector of the 
three hundred architects ; whose office was to draw plans 
for the workmen. 

After the candidate is introduced in due form, the 
Master thus addresses him : 

" Respectable Brother, — It gives me joy that I am 
about to recompense your zeal and attachment to the 
institution of Masonry, by appointing you provost and 
judge over all the works of this lodge ; and, as we are 
well assured of your prudence and discretion, we, with- 
out the least hesitation, entrust you with a most import- 
ant secret. We expect you will do your duty in the 
degree to which you Avill now be elevated, as you have 
done in those already taken." 

He is then decorated with a golden key suspended 
by a red ribbon, and an apron with a pocket in its 
centre. 

The intention of Solomon in forming this degree, was 
to strengthen the means of preserving order among such 
a vast number of craftsmen. Joabert, being honored 
w T ith the intimate confidence of his king, received this 
new mark of distinction. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 15 

Solomon first created Tito Prince Harodim, Adoni- 
ram, and Abda his father, provosts judges, and gave 
them orders to initiate Joabert, his favorite, into the 
secret mysteries of this degree, and to give him the keys 
of all the building. 

Lodge is closed by four and one. 

INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING, OR MASTER 
IN ISRAEL. 

This Lodge is decorated with red hangings, and illu- 
minated with twenty-seven lights, distributed by three 
times nine round the Lodge. There must be five other 
great lights on the altar before the Most Puissant, who 
represents Solomon seated with a sceptre in his hand. 

The first Warden, called Inspector, represents the 
Most Illustrious Tito Harodim ; second Warden repre- 
sents Adoniram, the son of Abda ; all the rest are ranged 
regularly. The Most Puissant, and all the brethren, are 
decorated with a large red ribbon, from the right shoul- 
der to the left hip, to which is suspended a triangle fas- 
tened by a small green ribbon. On one side of the 
triangle are engraved the words, Benchorim, Achard, 
Jachinai ; on the reverse, Judea, Ky, Jea. The aprons 
are 'white, lined with red, and bordered with green; in 
the centre, a star with nine points, above a balance ; and 
on the flap a triangle with these letters, B. A. I. on each 
angle.- 

A candidate, after being previously prepared and hav- 
ing gone through the ceremonies, is thus addressed : 

" My Brother, — Solomon, willing to carry to the 
highest degree of perfection the work he had begun in 
Jerusalem, found it necessary, from a circumstance with 



16 templars' chart. 

which you are acquainted, to employ the five chiefs of 
the five orders of architecture ; and gave command over 
them to Tito, Adoniram, and Abda his father ; being 
well assured that their zeal and abilities would be ex- 
erted to the utmost, in bringing to perfection so glorious 
a work. In like manner we expect you will do all that 
lies in your power to promote the grand design of 
Masonry. 

This Lodge is closed by 5, 7 and 15. 

ELECTED KNIGHTS OF NINE. 

This chapter represents the audience chamber of Solo- 
mon, and is to be decorated with white and red hang- 
ings — the red with white flames. 

There are nine lights in the east, and eight in the 
west. The Master represents Solomon, seated in the 
east with a table before him covered with black, and is 
styled Most Potent. 

There is only one Warden in the west, who represents 
Stockin with seven brethren round him. All the breth- 
ren must be dressed in black, and their hats napped, 
with a broad black ribbon from the left shoulder to the 
right hip, on the lower part of which are nine red roses, 
four on each side and one at the bottom, to which is 
suspended a poinard. The aprons are white, lined with 
black, speckled with blood ; on the flap a bloody arm 
with a poinard, and on the area a bloody arm holding 
by the hair a bloody head. 

Near to the Lodge is a small dark place, representing 
a cavern, in which is placed a lamp, a place represent- 
ing a spring, with a basin to hold water, and a table on 
which are laid a poinard and a representation of a bloody 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 17 

head, as just severed from the body. Near the table a 
large stone to sit on, and below the lamp, in capital let- 
ters, VENGEANCE. 

HISTORY OF THIS DEGREE. 

In the reign of Solomon, several of the workmen had 
been guilty of some crime of an enormous nature, and 
made their escape from Jerusalem. A great assembly 
of Masters had sat in consultation on the best means of 
discovering and apprehending them. Their deliberations 
were interrupted by the entrance of a stranger, who de- 
manded to speak to the king in private. Upon being 
admitted, he acquainted Solomon that he had discovered 
where Akirop, one of the traitors, lay concealed ; and 
offered to conduct those whom the king should please to 
appoint to go with him. This being communicated to 
the brethren, one and all requested to be partakers in 
the vengeance due to the villain. Solomon checked 
their ardor, declaring that only nine should undertake 
the task ; and to avoid giving any offence, ordered all 
their names to be put into an urn, and that the first nine 
that should be drawn, should be the persons to accom- 
pany the stranger. 

At break of day 9 Joabert, Stockin, and seven others, 
conducted by the stranger, travelled onwards through a 
dreary country. On the way, Joabert found means to 
learn from the stranger that the villain they were in 
quest of had hidden himself in a cavern not far from 
the place where they then were; he soon found the 
cavern and entered it alone, where, by the light of the 
lamp, he discovered the villain asleep, with a poniard at 
his feet. Inflamed at the sight, and actuated by an im- 



18 templars' chart. 

patient zeal, he immediately seized the poniard and 
stabbed him, first in the head and then in the heart; he 
had only time to cry, vengeance is taken, and expired. 
When the other eight arrived and had refreshed them- 
selves at the spring, Joabert severed the head from the 
body, and taking it in one hand and his poniard in 
the other, he, with his brethren, returned to Jerusalem. 
Solomon was at first very much offended that Joabert 
had put it out of his power to take vengeance himself, 
in presence of and as a warning to the rest of the work- 
men to be faithful to their trust ; but by proper inter- 
cession was again reconciled. 

Joabert became highly favored of Solomon, who con- 
ferred upon him and his eight companions, the title of 
Elected Knights. 

The Chapter is closed by eight and one. 

ILLUSTRIOUS ELECTED OF FIFTEEN. 

This Lodge represents Solomon's apartment, and is 
to be decorated in the same manner as that of the Nine 
Meet. There are two Wardens, the Senior is called In- 
spector. 

This Lodge should consist of only fifteen members, 
but should there be more at the time of reception, they 
must attend in the anti-chamber. 

The apron peculiar to this degree is white, and bor- 
dered with black ; and on the flap, three heads or spikes 
in form of a triangle ; the jewel is the same as that of 
the Nine Elect, only on that part of the black ribbon 
which crosses the breast, there should be the same de- 
vice as upon the apron. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 19 



HISTORY OF THE DEGREE. 



About six months after the execution of the traitor 
mentioned in the preceding degree of Elected Knights, 
Bengabee, an intendent of Solomon, in the county of 
Cheth, which was tributary to him, caused diligent in- 
quiry to be made if any person had lately taken shelter 
in those parts who might be supposed to have fled from 
Jerusalem. He published at the same time a particular 
description of all those traitors who had made their 
escape ; shortly after he received .information that seve- 
ral persons answering his description had lately arrived 
there, and believing themselves perfectly secure, had 
begun to work in the quarry of Bendaca. 

As soon as Solomon was made acquainted with this 
circumstance, he wrote to Maacha, king of Cheth, to 
assist in apprehending them, and to cause them to be 
delivered to persons that he should appoint to secure 
them, and have them brought to Jerusalem to receive 
the punishment due to their crimes. 

Solomon then elected fifteen Masters, in whom he 
could place the highest confidence, and among whom 
were those who had been in the cavern, and sent them 
in quest of the villains, and gave them an escort of 
troops. Five days were spent in the search, when Ter- 
bal, who bore Solomon's letter to Moriha and Eleham, 
discovered them cutting stone in the quarry ; they im- 
mediately seized them and bound them in chains. When 
they arrived at Jerusalem, they were imprisoned in the 
tower of Achizer, and the next morning a punishment 
was" inflicted on them adequate to their crimes. 

Lodge is closed by 3 times 5. 
16 



20 templars' chart. 

ILLUSTRIOUS KNIGHTS, OR SUBLIME KNIGHTS 
ELECTED. 

This Lodge is called a Grand Chapter ; Solomon pre- 
sides, and of course is to be decorated with a sceptre. 
In place of two Wardens, there are a Grand Inspector 
and Grand Master of Ceremonies. The jewel worn in 
this lodge is a sword, intended to represent a sword of 
justice hung to a large black ribbon ; on the part cross- 
ing the breast, must be an inflamed heart ; which is also 
to be painted on the flap of the apron. The Chapter is 
illuminated by twelve lights. 

HISTORY OF THIS DEGREE. 

After vengeance had been fully taken on the traitors 
mentioned in the foregoing degrees, Solomon instituted 
this, both as a reward for the zeal and integrity of the 
Grand Masters elect of fifteen, and also by their prefer- 
ment to make room for raising other worthy brethren 
from the lower degrees to that of Grand Master elect 
of fifteen. He accordingly appointed twelve of the 
fifteen, chosen by ballot, to constitute a Grand Chapter 
of Illustrious Knights, and gave them command over 
the twelve tribes. He expressed a particular regard for 
this Order, and showed them the precious things in the 
tabernacle. 

Here follow the names of the twelve Illustrious 
Knights, with the tribes over which they respectively 
presided : 

1. Joabert, who presided over the tribe of Judah. 

2. Stockin, ..... Benjamin, 

3. Terrey, Simeon. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 21 

4. Morphey, Ephraim. 

5. Alycuber, Manasseh. 

6. Dorson, 

7. Kerim, 

8. Berthemar, 

9. Tito, 

10. Terbal, 

11. Benachard, 

12. Taber, 



. • . Zebulon. 
. Dan. 

Asher. 
. Naphtali. 
Reuben. 
Issachar. 
Gad. 

The Illustrious Knights gave an account to Solomon, 
every day, of the work that was done in the Temple, by 
their respective tribes, and received their pay. 
This Chapter is closed by 12. 

GRAND MASTER ARCHITECTS. 

This Chapter is painted white, with red flames ; by 
which is signified the purity of heart and zeal, that should 
be the characteristic of every Grand Master Architect. 
It must have in it a delineation of the five orders of 
architecture ; together with a representation of the north 
star, with seven small stars round it, which signify that 
as the north star is a guide to mariners, so ought virtue 
to be the guide of Grand Master Architects. The 
jewel is a gold medal, on both sides of which are en- 
graved the five orders of architecture, suspended by a 
broad, dark, stone- colored ribbon, from the left shoulder 
to the right hip. 

Every Grand Master Architect must be furnished 
with a case of mathematical instruments. 



22 templars' chart. 



Address to a Candidate on his Admission to this Degree. 

" Brother, — I have elevated you to this degree from 
an expectation that you will so apply yourself to geome- 
try, to which you are now devoted, as will procure you 
knowledge sufficient to take away the veil from before 
your eyes, which yet remains there, and enable you to 
arrive at the perfect and sublime degree." 



Solomon established this degree with a view of form- 
ing a school of architecture, for the instruction of the 
brethren employed in the temple of God, and animating 
them to arrive at perfection in the royal art. He was a 
prince equally famed for his justice as for his wisdom 
and foresight ; he was therefore desirous of rewarding 
the talents and virtues of the faithful, in order to make 
them perfect, and fit to approach the throne of God. He 
accordingly cast his eyes upon the chiefs of the twelve 
tribes, as persons extremely proper to fulfil the promise 
made to Enoch, to Moses, and to David, that with great 
zeal, in fulness of time, the bowels of the earth should 
be penetrated. 

This Chapter is closed by 1 and 2. 

KING SOLOMON'S ROYAL ARCH. 

To form a Lodge of this degree, five persons at least 
must be present. 

1st. The Most Potent Grand Master, representing 
Solomon in the East, seated in a chair of State, under a 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 23 

rich canopy, with a crown on his head and a sceptre in 
his hand. He is dressed in royal robes of yellow, and 
an ermined vestment of blue satin, reaching to the 
elbows ; a broad purple ribbon from the right shoulder 
to the left hip, to which is hung a triangle of gold. 

2d. The Errand Warden, representing the king of 
Tyre, on his left hand, seated as a stranger, clothed in a 
purple robe and a yellow vestment. 

3d. The Grand Inspector, representing G — , in the 
West, with a drawn sword in his hand. » 

4th. The Grand Treasurer, representing Joabert, in 
the North, with a golden key to his fifth buttonhole, 
and upon it the letters I. V. I. L., Juvenis verbum intre 
Leonis. 

' 5th. The Grand Secretary, representing Stockin, in 
the South. 

The four last mentioned officers to be ornamented 
with the same ribbon and jewel as the M. P., and to sit 
covered. The three last to have robes of blue without 
vestments. 

No person can be admitted to this degree without 
having previously taken all the preceding degrees. 

history and charge of this degree. 

"My Worthy Brother, — 

" It is my intention at this time to give you a clearer 
account than you have yet been acquainted with, of 
Masonry ; of which at present you barely know the 
elements. 

" In doing this, it will be necessary to explain to you 
some circumstances of very remote antiquity. 
16* 



24 TEMPLARS CHART. 

" Enoch, the son of Jared, was the sixth son in de- 
scent from Adam, and lived in the fear and love of his 
Maker. 

" Enoch, being inspired by the Most High, and in 
commemoration of a wonderful vision, built a temple 
under ground, and dedicated the same to God. Methu- 
selah, the son of Enoch, constructed the building with- 
out being acquainted with his father's motives. 

" This happened in that part of the world which was 
afterwards called the land of Canaan, and since known 
by the name of the Holy Land. 

" Enoch caused a triangular plate of gold to be made, 
each side of which was a cubit long ; he enriched it with 
the most precious stones, and encrusted the plate upon 
a stone of agate, of the same form. He then engraved 
upon it the ineffable characters, and placed it on a trian- 
gular pedestal of white marble, which he deposited in 
the deepest arch. 

" When Enoch's temple was completed, he made a 
door of stone, and put a ring of iron therein, by which 
it might be occasionally raised ; and placed it over the 
opening of the arch, that the matters enclosed therein 
might be preserved from the universal destruction im- 
pending. And none but Enoch knew of the treasure 
which the arches contained. 

" And, behold, the wickedness of mankind increased 
more, and became grievous in the sight of the Lord, and 
God threatened to destroy the whole world. Enoch, 
perceiving that the knowledge of the arts was likely to 
be lost in the general destruction, and being desirous of 
preserving the principles of the sciences for the posterity 
of those whom God should be pleased to spare, built 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 25 

two great pillars on the top of the highest mountain, the 
one of brass, to withstand water, the other of marble, to 
withstand fire ; and he engraved on the marble pillar, 
hieroglyphics, signifying that there was a most precious 
treasure concealed in the arches under ground, which he 
had dedicated to God. And he engraved on the pillar 
of brass the principles of the liberal arts, particularly 
of Masonry. 

" Methuselah was the father of Lamech, who was the 
father of Noah, who was a pious and good man, and 
beloved by God. And the Lord spake unto Noah, say- 
ing : ' Behold, I will punish the sins of mankind with a 
general deluge ; therefore build an ark, capable of con- 
taining thyself and family, as also a pair of every living 
creature upon earth, and those only shall be saved from 
the general destruction which I am about to inflict for 
the iniquities of the people.' 

" And £*od gave unto Noah a plan by which the ark 
was to be constructed. Noah was one hundred years 
in building the ark; he was six hundred years old when 
it was finished, and his son Seth was ninety-nine. His 
father, Lamech, had died a short time before, aged 777 
years. There was not at this time any of the ancient 
patriarchs living, save Methuselah, the grandfather of 
Noah, who was about 969 years old, and it is supposed 
that he perished in the general ruin. 

" The ark being finished, Noah, agreeable to the in- 
structions he had received from the Most High, went 
into it with his family, and took with him such things as 
he was commanded. 

" The flood took place in the year of the world 1656, 
and destroyed most of the superb monuments of 



26 TEMPLARS CHART. 

antiquity. The marble pillar of Enoch fell in the gene- 
ral destruction ; but, by divine permission, the pillar of 
brass withstood the water, by which means the ancient 
state of the liberal arts, and particularly Masonry, has 
been handed down to us. 

" We learn from holy writ, the history of succeeding 
times, till the Israelites became slaves to the Egyptians ; 
from which bondage they were freed under the conduct 
of Moses. The same sacred book informs us that 
Moses was beloved of God, and that the Most High 
spoke to him on Mount Sinai. To Moses, God commu- 
nicated his divine law, written on tables of stone, with 
many promises of a renewed alliance. He also gave 
him the true pronunciation of his sacred name ; and God 
gave a strict command unto Moses, that no one should 
pronounce it ; so that in process of time the true pro- 
nunciation was lost. 

" The same divine history particularly informs us of 
the different movements of the Israelites, until they be- 
came possessed of the land of promise, and of the suc- 
ceeding events until the Divine Providence was pleased 
to give the sceptre to David ; who, though fully deter- 
mined to build a temple to the Most High, could never 
begin ; that honor being reserved for his son. 

" Solomon being the wisest of princes, had fully in 
remembrance the promises of God to Moses, that some 
of his successors, in fullness of time, should discover 
his holy name ; and his wisdom inspired him to believe 
that this could not be accomplished until he had erected 
and consecrated a temple to the living God, in which he 
might deposit the precious treasures. 

"Accordingly, Solomon began to build, in the fourth 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 27 

year of his reign, agreeable to a plan given to him by 
David, his father, upon the ark of alliance. 

"He chose a spot for this purpose, the most beautiful 
and healthy in all Jerusalem. 

" The number of the grand and sublime elected were 
at first three, and now consisted of five ; and continued 
so until the temple was completed and dedicated ; when 
king Solomon, as a reward for their faithful services, 
admitted to this degree the twelve Grand Masters, who 
had faithfully presided over the twelve tribes ; also one 
other Grand Master Architect. Nine ancient Grand 
Masters, eminent for their virtue, were chosen Knights 
of the Royal Arch, and shortly afterwards were admitted 
to the sublime degree of perfection. 

" You have been informed in what manner the number 
of the Grand Elect was augmented to twenty-seven, 
which is the cube of three ; they consisted of two Kings, 
three Knights of the Eoyal Arch, twelve Commanders 
of the Twelve Tribes, nine elected Grand Masters, and 
one Grand Master Architect." 

This Lodge is closed by the mysterious number. 



GRAND ELECT, PERFECT AND SUBLIME 

MASON. 

The Lodge of Perfection, or ultimate degree of An- 
cient Masonry, should represent a subterraneous vault, 
painted red, and adorned with many colors, and columns 
of a flame color. Behind the Master must be a light to 
shine through a triangular sun ; and before him there 
must be a pedestal appearing to be broken. There 



28 " templars' chart. 

ought to be several other lights, arranged numerically, 
according to the different stages of Masonry. 

The Most Perfect, Grand Elect and Sublime Master, 
in this degree, is to represent Solomon, seated in the 
East, dressed in royal robes, and having a crown and 
sceptre placed on a pedestal before him. The two 
Grand Wardens are seated in the West. On the right 
hand of the Most Perfect sits the Grand Treasurer, hav- 
ing a table before him, upon which must be placed some 
perfumes, with a small silver hod, and a trowel of gold. 
On his left hand sits the Grand Secretary, with a table 
also before him, on which must be seven loaves of shew 
bread, with a cup of red wine for libation, and also 
jewels for the candidates at their reception. 

The jewels appertaining to this degree are a crowned 
compass, extended to ninety degrees ; or, a quadrant, a 
sun in the centre ; and on the reverse, a blazing star, 
enclosing a triangle, hung to a broad flame-colored rib- 
bon, of a triangular form, round the neck ; and also, a 
gold ring with this motto, " Virtue unites what death 
cannot part." 

The apron must be flamed with red, a blue ribbon 
round the edge, and the jewel painted on the flap. The 
brethren must be dressed in black, with swords in their 
hands. 

Prayer at Opening. 

Almighty and Sovereign Architect of Heaven and 
Earth, who by thy divine power dost ultimately search 
the most secret recesses of thought, purify our hearts by 
the sacred fire of thy love ; guide us by thine unerring 
hand, in the path of virtue, and cast out of thy adorable 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 29 

sanctuary all impiety and perverseness ; we beseech 
thee that our thoughts may be engaged in the grand 
work of our perfection, which, when attained, will be an 
ample reward for our labor ; let peace and charity link 
us together in a pleasing union, and may this Lodge ex- 
hibit a faint resemblance of that happiness which the 
elect will enjoy in thy kingdom. Give us a spirit of 
holy discrimination, by which we may be able to refuse 
the evil and choose the good ; and also that we may not 
be led astray by those who unworthily assume the charac- 
ter of the Grand Elect. Finally, be pleased to grant, 
that all our proceedings may tend to thy glory, and our 
advancement in righteousness. Bless us and prosper 
our works, O Lord ! Amen. 

When a candidate is introduced, after certain solemn 
forms, the Master of the Ceremonies says : " I impress 
you, my brother, with an ardent zeal for the honor of 
the Grand Architect of the Universe ; to the end that 
you may live always in his adorable presence with .a 
heart disposed to every thing that is pleasing to him." 

The Most Perfect then presents the candidate with 
the bread and wine, saying : " Eat of this bread with 
me, and drink of the same cup, that we may learn 
thereby to succor each other in time of need by a mutual 
love, and participation of what we possess." He then 
presents to him a gold ring, saying : " Receive this ring, 
and let it be remembered by you as a symbol of the 
alliance you have now contracted with virtue and the 
virtuous. You are never, my dear brother, to part with 
it whilst you live ; nor to bequeath it at your death, ex- 
cept to your wife, your eldest son, or your nearest 
friend." 



30 templars' chart. 

When this part of the ceremony is ended, the brethren 
make a libation, according to ancient usage. 

The Most Perfect then decorates the candidate accord- 
ing to the ornaments of the Order, saying : " I now 
with the greatest pleasure salute you, my brother, as a 
Grand Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason, which title I 
now confer on you, and grace you with the symbols 
thereof. Receive this ribbon the triangular figure of 
which is emblematical of the divine triangle. The 
crown upon your jewel is a symbol of the royal origin 
of this degree. The compass, extended to ninety de- 
grees, denotes the extensive knowledge of the Grand 
Elect. These jewels, suspended on your breast, should 
make you attentive to your duty and station." 

Charge. 

Thus, my venerable brother, by your unblamable con- 
duct, assiduity, constancy and integrity, you have at 
last attained the title of Grand Elect, Perfect and Sub- 
lime Mason, which is the summit of ancient Masonry, 
and upon your arrival to which, I most sincerely con- 
gratulate you. 

I must earnestly recommend to you the strictest care 
and circumspection in all your conduct, that the sublime 
mysteries of this degree be not profaned nor disgraced. 

As to what remains of completing your knowledge in 
the ancient state of Masonry, you will find it by at- 
tending to the following 



When the Temple of Jerusalem was finished, the 
masons who were employed in constructing that stately 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 31 

edifice, acquired immortal honor. Their order became 
more uniformly established and regulated than it had 
been before, Their delicacy in admitting new members 
of their order, brought it to a degree of respect ; as the 
merit of the candidate was the only thing they then 
paid attention to. With these principles instilled into 
their minds, many of the Grand Elect left the temple 
after its dedication, and dispersed themselves among the 
neighboring kingdoms, instructing all who applied and 
were found worthy, in the sublime degrees of Ancient 
Craft Masonry. The temple was finished in the year 
of the world 3000. 

Thus far the wise king of Israel behaved worthy of 
himself, and gained universal admiration ; but, in pro- 
cess of time, when he had advanced in years, his under- 
standing became impaired ; he grew deaf to the voice 
of the Lord, and was strangely irregular in his conduct. 
Proud of having erected an edifice to his Maker, and 
much intoxicated with his great power, he plunged into 
all manner of licentiousness and debauchery, and pro- 
faned the temple, by offering that incense to the idol 
Moloch, which only should have been offered to the liv- 
ing God. 

The Grand Elect and Perfect Masons saw this, and 
were sorely grieved; being fearful that his apostacy 
would end in some dreadful consequences, and perhaps 
bring upon them their enemies, whom Solomon had 
vainly and wantonly defied. The people, copying the 
follies and vices of their king, became proud and idola 
trous, neglecting the true worship of God for that of 
idols. 

As an adequate punishment for this defection, God 
17 



32 TEMPLARS' CHART. 

inspired the heart of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, 
to take vengeance on the kingdom of Israel. This prince 
sent an army with Nebuzaradan, Captain of the Guards, 
who entered Judah with fire and sword, took and sacked 
the city of Jerusalem, razed its walls, and destroyed 
that superb model of excellence, the temple. The peo- 
ple were carried captive to Babylon, and the conquerors 
carried with them all the vessels of gold and silver, &c. 
This happened 470 years, 6 months, and 10 days after 
its dedication. 

When the time arrived that the Christian princes en- 
tered into a league to free the Holy Land from the 
oppression of the infidels, the good and virtuous Masons, 
anxious for so pious an undertaking, voluntarily offered 
their services to the confederates, on condition that they 
should have a chief of their own election, which was 
granted ; accordingly they accepted their standard and 



The valor and fortitude of those elected Knights was 
such, that they were admired by, and took the lead of, 
all the princes of Jerusalem, who, believing that their 
mysteries inspired them with courage and fidelity to the 
cause of virtue and religion, became desirous of being 
initiated ; upon being found worthy, their desires were 
complied with, and thus the royal art, meeting the ap- 
probation of great and good men, became popular and 
honorable, and was diffused to the worthy, throughout 
their various dominions, and has continued to spread, 
far and wide, through a succession of ages, to the present 
day. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 33 



KNIGHTS OF THE EAST OR SWORD. 

MASONRY RENEWED, OR THE SWORD RECTIFIED. 

Form of Council of Knights of the East or Sword. 

The hanging of the Council should be green or water 
color in remembrance of those events which happened 
at the river Euphrates, called * * * on the return of 
the Israelites from their captivity, of which a particular 
account shall be hereafter given. 

The aforesaid hangings ought to be interspersed with 
red, in remembrance of Assyrian blood, which was the 
means of tinging the river. The lights that illuminate 
the Council should be 72, in memory of the 72 years of 
the captivity of the Israelites at Babylon, but may be 
done with seven large and two small ones. The two 
small lights represent the two last years of Zedekiah's 
reign and the time that the siege lasted, and the 70 
years of captivity from the time that the Israelites were 
carried to Babylon by Nebuzar-adin under the reign of 
Nebuchadnezzar, by whose order Jerusalem and the 
Lord's Temple were destroyed ; and secondly, on ac- 
count of the 72 letters which compose the words of. the 
Order of the Knights of the East, and also of those of 
the Grand Elect Perfect and Sublime Masters, as may 
be seen in the Diagram. 



34 TEMPLARS CHART. 

A. 

All the Knights are decorated with a large, broad, 
green watered ribbon, from the right shoulder to the 
left hip. On that part of the ribbon which comes on 
the shoulder must be a bridge, either painted, or em- 
broidered thereon, and the initials L. D. P. of a fiery 
color, which signifies liberty of passage for Freemasons. 

A broad scarlet ribbon must be strewed with stars, 
at the bottoms of which must hang a small eastern 
sabre in its sheath. 

There must be no dead heads, nor dry bones, nor any 
black color, such having the appearance of mourning, 
whereas the Knight of the East ought never to go in 
mourning for any body, as they triumphed in a combat 
wherein none were slain, but those who endeavored to 
oppose their passage, contrary to the orders of the great 
King in Persia. The green water color is the only proper 
one for them, as well on account of the victory they ob- 
tained, as the color of the water, or river, on whose 
banks they triumphed. The interspersion of the em- 
blems on the ribbon is a natural representation of what 
happened on the banks and bridge of the Euphrates, 
whose green waters were tinged with the Assyrian's 
blood, and covered with limbs, heads, crowns, &c. This 
river is called by the Knights of the East, S * * * 
which is the name of the chief of the adversaries who 
attempted to oppose the rebuilding of the Temple, which 
in Hebrew signifies R * A * as we are taught in 
the Talmud, a signification, which wonderfully agrees 
with the profession of the Knight of the East, a name, 
in short, composed of eleven letters, which being added 



INEFFABLE BEGREES. 35 

to the other words of the Order, form the mysterious 
number of 81, as is amply explained in the Degree and 
Diagrams. 

The apron may be of white satin or skin, lined with 
red and bordered with green — the tip down, on which 
must be a bloody head, between two swords, in a St. 
Andrew's cross, either painted or embroidered, and in 
the apron must be presented three heaps of broken tri- 
angles. 

B. 

Explanation of the Draft. 

First.— At the upper end is an eagle upright on his 
legs with his wings extended, his head erect, staring at 
the sun. On his right side and on his left is a moon — 
by his right foot a large I, and by his left foot a large 
B, and at an equal distance on either side of him the 
initials of the compound word G. H. * * * 

Second. — Immediately under the Eagle is a great ob- 
long representing the new Temple, constructed accord- 
ing to the dimensions given by King Cyrus. 

Third. — In the east part of this oblong * * * is rep- 
resented the Holy of Holies, where the ark of the cove- 
nant is deposited, covered by the wings of the two 
cherubims, which support the D * * on which is 
the name of the Supreme Architect of the Universe. 

Fourth. — This Holy of Holies is to be separated from 
the rest by a veil or curtain. 

Fifth. — In the Sacred place is to be an altar of the 
Sacrifices, in the middle of which is an inflamed heart. 
The letters E. O. * - * which signifies True Master 



36 . templars' chart. 

or true mason, such as * * * There are to be also 
tools and instruments of masonry, which are employed 
in the construction of the Temple. 

Sixth. — The West Door is to be the grand staircase 
of seven steps. 

Seventh. — Beneath the altar is the square of nine, 
which is 81, of which you have an example in the dia- 
gram of illustrations. 

Explanations are given afterwards, why this number 
81 is particularly dear to the Perfect Master. 

The square of nine which gives three times 27, beau- 
tifully explains the triple alliance of the Divinity, 
marked by the triple triangle, which is further explained 
by the nine virtues attached, and which in their final 
combination represents the number 81. * * * 



Eighth. — On the outside of the Temple on a line with 
the Ark below the Sun, stands Mount Hebron — known 
by all Masons by the letter H. Under the moon on 
the left side, Mount Gilboa — expressed likewise by the 
letter G., on this mount the sacrifices were made before 
the construction of the Temple. 

Ninth. — At the fourth gate is a hand holding a trowel, 
and five steps, opposite this gate is a hod for carrying 
mortar, — under the five steps is a heap of cut stone fit 
for use — a little further, a heap of rough stones, designed 
to fortify the building. 

Tenth. — At the north gate is a hand armed with a 
sword and three steps, under which, is a trophy of arms 
for the use of builders, in case of necessity. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 37 

Eleventh. — Lower down are the vases, urns, and other 
sacred adornings of the Temple. The mortar, Table of 
Shew-bread, candlestick with seven branches, the al- 
tar * * * * 

Twelfth. — In the centre the Bible, square, and com- 
pass. 

Thirteenth. — Still beneath, on another line are repre- 
sented a shovel, lever, cutting hammer, and in the third 
line, on the same side, a level, perpendicular triangle and 
a quadrangle, so disposed that they may occupy the 
whole Lodge, from north to south on the same side. 

Fourteenth. — On another line, triangular-wise, the rule, 
chisel, and mallet, and the word Judea, or its initial J. 

Fifteenth. — On the north side is a square stone, with 
its ring, and the opening, — which stone is covered, being 
the representations of Enoch's Temple, and the nine 
arches under ground, and in the perspective in the South 
is an Egyptian Pyramid. 

Sixteenth. — The Lodge, towards the west end, is tra- 
versed from North to South, by the representation of 
the River Euphrates called S * * over which is built 
a wooden bridge for the passage of Free Masons to get 
into Judea, Y. and H. 

Seventeenth. — The aforesaid River is strewn with heads, 
limbs, broken crowns, swords, &c. 

.Eighteenth. — On the west side of the river opposite 
the bridge, you see the word "Lyra" and at each ex- 
tremity of the river is represented a collar of chains 
of a triangular form and links, and in the middle of those 
chains seven golden candlesticks. 

Nineteenth. — On the right is the mount with the letter 



38 templars' chart. 

T, representing the quarry of Tyre, whence the stones 
were drawn for the construction of the Temple. 

On the left, a mount with the letter L, representing 
Libanus, from which timber was taken for the same 
purpose. Below Libanus is an oblong, with a small 
triangle in the centre, representing the tomb of Zedekias 
the last king of David's race. 

Twentieth. — In the centre of this apartment are two 
columns — a cross — and broken. * * * 

Twenty-first. — At the bottom of the draft are repre- 
sented a part of the plan of Babylon, as if in ruins. 

Twenty -second. — Underneath the quarry of Tyre is a 
heap of triangular chains, broken parallel with the tomb 
of Zedekiah ; each article of the explanation of this draft 
includes a mysterious scene, a part of which is explained 
in the instructions given the candidate. The rest re- 
mains an enigma, until the moment when truth shall be 
wholly revealed to him. 

All the brethren are styled princes by the sovereign, 
and among themselves they have the title of Excellency. 
The candidate represents Zerubbabel. 

The door is guarded by two young Knights, with 
pikes. The Knights are armed, and whenever the sove- 
reign enters the Council, they form an arch with their 
swords for the Sovereign to pass through. 

First. — The Sovereign, who represents Cyrus, Darius, 
&c, is seated in the East, under a canopy, in his royal 
robes. 

Second. — The Grand Keeper of the seals called Ne- 
hemiah, is seated on the right hand of the Sovereign, 
— who never leaves his place, not even when the Princes 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 39 

of Jerusalem visit the Council — who take their places 
on his right. 

Third.— The Grand General called * * * S ni 

takes his stand at the west end of the Council, a little to 
the right of the Sovereign. 

Fourth. — The Grand Treasurer * * * is placed also 
in the West on the right hand of the Grand General. 

Fifth. — The Grand Orator, or Minister of State, called 
* * * is seated on the left side of the Sovereign. 
The other Princes are seated on either side. If any of 
the five Grand Officers are absent, the Sovereign can 
nominate them out of the Princes present. 

Opening of a Council. 

The Grand General in the West, says "Brother 
Knights, the Sovereign has assembled us to hold a coun- 
cil — Here he comes ! let us be attentive to what he will 
propose." The Sovereign enters suddenly and passes 
the arch up to the throne, and striking the pedestal 
with his sword, says " Princes, this Council is open." 
Saluting the Knights by putting his right hand on his 
breast and bowing a little with his hat or crown on his 
head. All the Princes return the salutation in the same 
manner, holding their hats in their left hand, and the 
points of their lances to the heart, bowing — after which 
all are seated. 

Form of Initiation. 

The Candidate being duly proposed awaits in the 
reception room till questioned by the proper officer, of 
his wishes, &c. * * * * 



40 templars' chart. 

D. 

The Test or agreement of a Knight of the East, or 
Sword, is to recognize all Knights of the East wherever 
found. 

ORIGIN OF KNIGHTS OF THE EAST. 

The Knights of the East date their origin from the 
captivity of Babylon, where the Israelites remained 70 
years. 

After two years siege they had their liberty given 
them by Cyrus King of Persia, by the solicitation of 
Zerubbabel, a prince of the tribe of Judah, and descended 
from the race of David, — and Nehemiah, a holy man of 
a distinguished family. Cyrus permitted them to re- 
turn to Jerusalem with the treasures and implemeuts 
of the Temple, intrusting the whole to Zerubbabel, charg- 
ing him that the new Temple should be 70 cubits high, 
and as many broad. He issued an edict to let the 
Masons pass freely through his dominions, without caus- 
ing them any molestation, on pain of death. 

He ordered * * * his general to teach Zerubbabel the 
art of war, and armed him Knight and gave him power 
to confer the same degree upon those Masons he should 
find worthy. 

Zerubbabel assembled all the Israelites, the number of 
whom was 42,360, exclusive of slaves. He then made 
choice of those Free Masons, who escaped the fury of 
the soldiers at the destruction of the first Temple. He 
also chose 7,000 soldiers whom he armed — all Knights — 
put them at the head of the people, to fight such as should 
oppose their passage on the road to Judea. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 41 

The march of the Israelites was prosperous, as far as 
the River Euphrates, r * * * which separates Judea 
from Syria. Now the Knight Masons, who arrived there 
first, found troops armed to hinder their passage, on ac- 
count of the treasures of the Temple which they carried 
with them. Neither the remonstrances of the Knights, 
nor the edicts of King Cyrus were able to restrain their 
insolence, and they fell on the Knights, who on their 
side, repulsed them with such heroic fortitude, that they 
were all to a man, either drowned, or cut to pieces at 
the passing of the bridge. After this victory, Zerubbabel 
caused an altar to be erected on the field of battle, on 
which he offered an holocaust to the Lord, who had 
fought for Israel, and took the letter H for a pass word, 
which signifies liberty of passage. After this the Israel- 
ites passed the River, and arrived at Jerusalem (after 
four months march) on the 22d of June, at 7 o'clock in 
the morning. After seven days rest, the three Archi- 
tects, with their associates, began to lay the foundation 
of the new Temple. They divided the work into classes, 
each of which had its chief and two assistants. Every 
degree of each class was paid according to their work, 
and had each of them their respective words. — The word 
of the first class was [B], and were paid at the column 
that stood at the entrance of the Temple. The word of 
the Second Class was [C] and they received their pay- 
ments in the portico. The Third Class received their 
wages in the middle of the Temple, after pronouncing 
the letter [D]. The same order was observed in the 
construction of the Second Temple as was practised at 
the first. 

The work was hardly begun when the Knight Masons 



42 templars' chart. 

were disturbed oy false brethren * * who jealous 
of the glory, which the two tribes Judah and Benjamin 
were to acquire, being now free — they resolved to de- 
clare war against them, in order to defeat their design 
of rebuilding the Temple. 

Zerubbabel being informed of their intentions, ordered 
that all the workmen should be armed, with a sword 
in one hand, and the trowel in the other, that while they 
wrought with one, they could defend themselves with 
the other, and repulse the enemy when required. The 
New Temple was 46 years in building. It was begun 
in the reign of Cyrus, and finished in the reign of Ar- 
taxerxes, and was consecrated in the same manner as 
the first by King Solomon. The Decalogue and Ordi- 
nances of Moses were observed anew, and a chief was 
appointed to govern the Nation, and was chosen from 
the Knight Masons, called Knights of the East, because 
they were free and were created Knights by Cyrus, King 
of Persia. 

This second Temple having been destroyed by the 
Romans, the Knights of the present age and descend- 
ants of those who constructed the second Temple feel a 
desire, under a new Zerubbabel, to raise a third to the 
glory of the Great Architect of the Universe. 



LECTURE OF THE KNIGHTS OF THE EAST. 

Closing Ceremony. 

The Sovereign says : — " Princes, the Council is over," 
at the same time, striking gently the Pedestal with his 
sword seven times. When all the Knights say u Glory 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 43 

unto the Great Architect of the Universe, and respect to 
our Sovereign, and prosperity to the Knights of the 
Order." With the hands on the breast they all salute 
the Sovereign. 



PRINCES OF JERUSALEM. 

DRAFT OF A GRAND COUNCIL OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS AND 
MOST VALIANT PRINCES OF JERUSALEM. 

Form of the Council when there is a Reception. 

First — The Council is divided into two parts, with an 
arch in the middle. The first part in the West should 
be decorated with red, representing Babylon, where the 
most Illustrious and most valorous sits under a red can- 
opy, with a small square table, with a roll of paper — he 
brings a crown and sceptre in his hand. 

Second. — The part in the East must be yellow, and 
represents Jerusalem. The Sovereign of Sovereigns 
placed under a yellow canopy, before him a triangular 
table, on which must be also a naked sword, a balance, 
a shield, a sceptre and a candlestick, with five branches. 
He has a large water-colored Ribbon, suspended from 
the left shoulder to the right hip, and a jewel of the 
Order suspended thereto, which is an equal balance with 
five stars, with the letters D. Z. over each end of the 
balance ; on the reverse is represented the entry of the 
Prince of Jerusalem, — all the Princes ought to have 
the same jewel. The Second Grand Warden, whom we 
call the Grand General of the Army, — and the Grand 
Treasurer, sit, each, under a small canopy in the West, 



44 templars' chart. 

at each side cf the arch, with the same paraphernalia, 
as the Sovereign, except the crown. The Grand Keeper 
of the Seals called Nehemiah, is to be on the right hand 
of the Sovereign, and the Minister of State, called Ezdras, 
on his left hand, each under a small canopy with the 
same decorations. The other Princes are placed at the 
right and left by gradation. 

The door of the Grand Council must always be guarded 
by the two youngest Princes, and receive their order 
from the General of the Army ; they must be armed 
with a spear instead of a sword. All the Princes that 
are in Office, ought to be armed with a shield and a 
lance. The apron is lined and bordered with yellow, 
on the flap of which is painted or embroidered, a bal- 
ance, with the letters D. Z. When the Council sits on 
matters of the craft, any complaint is made to them of 
any irregularities of Lodges under its jurisdiction (there 
being only one Council admitted in each government,) 
and when there is to be no reception there is no occasion 
for the Arch, as Babylon is out of the question, and the 
Grand Council is only formed by itself. 

Form of Opening. 

The most Illustrious and valorous Prince Zerubbabel 
says to the Grand Warden in the West, " Thrice valor- 
ous Princes, how comes this place divided into two 
parts, the East yellow and the West red V 1 The 
Eastern part represents Jerusalem with a golden color, 
a Holy Place — where the first Temple was erected, and 
the West, with red, represents Babylon, an emblem of 
the blood that was shed, in the different combats, that 
were fought on the road, between Babylon and Jerusa- 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 45 

lem by the Knight Masons, when they returned from 
their captivity. 

Who presides in our Council 1 — The prince Zerubba- 
bel, under the title of Thrice Equitable. 

Who are the Grand Wardens 1 — Two of the Princes 
under the title of Most Profound. 

If it is so, thrice excellent brother Princes, most en- 
lightened, acquaint the Most Excellent and thrice valor- 
ous here present, that I am going to open the Grand 
Council. 

" Most excellent Brethren, Most Valorous and Illus- 
trious Princes, the Sovereign informs you that the Grand 
Council is to be opened — Be attentive to what he proposes. 
— What is the o'clock V It is five in the evening. — The 
Sovereign strikes five times on the step of the Throne, 
and says, " Most Valiant Princes, the Council is open." 
— Which is repeated by the Grand Wardens, also the 
five knocks — When all are seated. 

Form of Reception. 
******** 

Obligation. 
******** 

After the obligation the Candidate is conducted to the 
General of the Army, who decorates him with the apron 
and a large yellow ribbon of the Order, with a jewel 
suspended thereto, and gives him all necessary informa- 
tion. 

E. 

After the candidate is thus arrayed he is conducted 
to the Master of Ceremonies, when he receives the fol- 
lowing 



46 templars' chart. 



The Candidate in his reception, in all the ceremonies 
he passes through, is caused to represent Zerubbabel, 
who at the head of his embassy sent from Jerusalem to 
Babylon, was armed completely for the combats they 
had to encounter, with the people of whom they were 
going to complain, who posted themselves ready to op- 
pose their passage. 

The Candidate and his companions represent that 
celebrated deputation from the people of Jerusalem to 
king Darius, when Zerubbabel appeared before the Great 
King, and acquainted him with the motives of that em- 
bassy, upon which he received the Patent from Darius, 
in which it was ordered that the people of Samaria 
should submit to his mandate, therein set forth. Zerub- 
babel returned to Jerusalem, and gave an account to 
the people of his success, who received him and his four 
companions with great respect. After this the Candidate 
receives the knowledge of our mysteries, which in the 
end represents the power which was given these ambas- 
sadors by the people, for their success, 

The lights in the West being 125 by 5, and the num- 
ber of fires also by fives, around tne city o/ Jerusalem, 
represent the number of ambassadors. These five bon- 
fires around the city express the joy of the people of 
Jerusalem. 

When all the Princes come and receive the ambassa- 
dors at the West gate, to compliment and conduct them 
to the second, where the candidate is honored with the 
title of Prince, in remembrance of the event that all the 
people went out of the city before the ambassador, when 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 47 

Zerubbabel was elected prince and governor of the city 
of Jerusalem. 

Darius' letter to the Princes of Samaria. 

We, Darius, being willing to favor in our own grati- 
tude and goodness, our beloved people of Jerusalem, in 
example of our predecessor, King Cyrus — who having 
heard their complaint by their ambassadors, against the 
people of Samaria, for refusing to contribute to the con- 
struction of the Temple, and the necessaries for the 
sacrifices of which they had need : and order that they 
are to submit unto our former orders, under the penalty 
of incurring our highest displeasure and vengeance. Given 
in our Grand Court the 4th day of the 2d month of the 
year 3534, under the seal of the faithful Satraps of all 
Judea, and of our reign the 3d current of the above. 

Darius Kex. 

To close the Grand Council. 

Sove. Thrice elected Brothers and valorous Princes, 
What hour is it exactly 1 A. Most Illustrious, Most 
Valorous and Most Equitable Sovereign, the Sun has 
traversed half its career, and justice is done to his peo- 
ple. Sove. Proclaim that I am going to close the Grand 
Council by the mysterious numbers. Gen. Thrice 
elected and most valorous Princes, the Sovereign an- 
nounces to me that the Grand Council is going to be 
closed. (Silence.) All rise ; Sovereign knocks five 
with his sword on the Pedestal, and says, " This Grand 
Council is closed," — repeated by the two Generals, who 
knock the same number with their hands, and the G. C. 
is closed. 



48 TEMPLARS CHART. 

LECTURE. * * * 
Privileges of the Princes of Jerusalem, 

First. — They are chiefs of all degrees below them, 
and only give place to the founder of their constitution ; 
the Knights of the Sun, Knights of the White and Black 
Eagle, and Princes of the Royal Secret. 

Second. — They have a right to disclose every matter 
that is not done in a proper manner, in Councils of 
Knights of the East, Lodges of Perfection, and lower 
degrees when they visit there. If none of the higher 
degrees are present, as before mentioned, as they are 
chief of all masonic degrees. 

Third. — When a Prince of Jerusalem visits any Lodge, 
and it is known he is a prince, the Master sends depu- 
ties to inquire if he chooses to be received in due form. 
He answers, he expects it by the dignity of his royal 
robes. Then the Master sends four of his eldest Masters 
with naked swords to receive him. The Prince enters 
with his sword in his hand, with his buckler and spear, 
and stands between the wardens, salutes the Master and 
brethren with his sword, without taking off his hat; 
after which the Master invites the Prince visitor to sit 
at his right hand. When he advances to the Master, all 
the brethren form an arch with their swords, through 
which he goes, till he arrives at the seat, when the Mas- 
ter offers him the Hiram and the chair, which he may 
take or refuse. But if he takes the seat, &c, he returns 
it after a little while to the Master. 

Fourth. — If a Prince visitor desires to retire out of 
the Lodge, before it is closed, the Master orders the 



INEFFABLE DECREES. 49 

Arch with the oldest brother to conduct him to the door, 
the Master and all the brethren standing, while he de- 
parts. 

Fifth. — A prince of Jerusalem cannot receive these 
honors when there is present a brother of a higher de- 
gree ; then, he only goes through the arch, and takes his 
seat according to rank. When a Prince visits the Lodge, 
he has the title of Valorous Prince, — the higher brethren, 
Thrice Illustrious and Sublime Prince. 

A Lodge is obliged to give an exact account of every- 
one of their transactions, show either of them their con- 
stitution — if they are good, &c, and if any coolness 
exists among the brethren he is to reconcile them, and 
if any obstinate, he has the power to expel them imme- 
diately, if they will not conform to the rules and regu- 
lations of Masonry. 

Seventh. — The Princes of Jerusalem have a right to 
keep their seats in all operations of symbolic Lodges, 
with their hats on. — Can not claim the privileges without 
their decorations. 

Eighth. — The Princes of Jerusalem can form a Grand 
Council. — One Grand Council can only be formed in one 
government, Jf any Lodge of Perfection be established, 
in any other government where no Grand Council is 
established, they may appeal to that Council which is 
regularly established, in which case that Council can 
finally judge, and no appeal can be had from such judg- 
ments. They are authorized, by the same power that 
was given to their predecessors by the people of Jerusa- 
lem, Salem, and by their perfect knowledge of every 
matter of the Craft. 

END OF SIXTEENTH DEGREE, 



50 templars' chart. 

KNIGHTS OF THE EAST AND WEST. 
Origin. 

When the Knights and Princes concluded to conquer 
the Holy Land, they took a banner with the Cross to 
distinguish themselves, as being under that banner, and 
entered into an agreement to spill the last drop of their 
blood to establish the true Christian religion. But peace 
being made, they could not fulfil their vow — they therefore 
returned to their own respective countries, and resolved 
to do by theory what they could not do by practice, and 
never to admit into their ceremonies any but those, who 
had given proof of friendship, zeal, and discretion. They 
joined the Knights of Malta, by having a connection 
with them relative to Masonry, and took the name of 
Knights of the East and West, and Princes of Jerusalem, 
to teach all the world where that Order began, and they 
never changed in their customs or receptions. 

In the year 1118, the first Knights to the number of 
eleven, took their vows between the hands of * * * 
and Prince of Jerusalem. 

Ceremony of Reception. 

The Council must be hung with red with stars of 
gold. The East is ornamented by a canopy elevated 
by seven steps, and supported by lions and eagles. On 
one side of the throne is the sun and on the other the 
moon, made light by transparency — and under them 
a rainbow, — below this a basin of water and a skull. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 51 

On the North and South sides are eleven small canopies, 
elevated by three steps. In the West, two canopies, 
with five steps. 

The full Grand Council is composed of 24 Knights, — 
the venerable Master is called Puissant. The Wardens 
and 21 others are called Eespectable. If there are more 
brethren they are styled Respectable Knights, and are 
distributed north and south behind the canopies. The 
first canopy at the right of the Puissant, is always vacant 
for the candidate. 

All the brethren are vested in white robes with a 
golden girdle around the waist, and a golden crown on 
their heads. The Knights in their ordinary habit, wear 
a white, broad ribbon, from the right shoulder to the 
left hip, with the jewel suspended thereto — with the cross 
of their order suspended to a black ribbon hanging from 
the neck. 

The Puissant holds a large book, to which are attached 
seven seals — a Lamb is represented by transparency. 

The Draft of a Council is a Heptagon,* around which 
are the following letters— B. D. W. P. H. C. S., with 
cross swords and seven candlesticks, with the following 
letters — H. D. P. I. P. R. O., one letter on each candle- 
stick. 

Clothing. 

The apron is yellow, lined and bordered with red. 
Two scarfs are worn, one white, passing from right to 
left, — the other black, passing from left to right, — to 
which is suspended the heptagonal jewel. 

* Represented by a pentagon, or a star of five points, as in the 
illustration. 



52 TEMPLARS CHART. 

Opening of a Council. 

P. Venerable Brother Knights and Princes, what is 
your duty ? A. To know that we are secure. P. Search 
and see if we are so : 

Respectable Brethren, this Grand Council of Knights 
of the East and West is open — be attentive. We shall 
always be attentive to all your orders. 

Form of Reception. 

The candidate is received and conducted to the Puis- 
sant, where kneeling, he agrees to the following obli- 
gation. 

To abide by the laws of the Order, and to live by the 
rules of the Christian religion. After this the Master 
of Ceremonies takes the candidate to the two Wardens, 
before the Draft, when the All-Puissant explains to him 
the mysteries of the Degree. 

F. 

The jewel of the Degree is a heptagon — regular — of 
silver or gold, on one side the letters B. D. W. P. H. C. 
F., and on the other B. D. S. H. P. F. C, and in the 
middle of the letters the cross sword and scales, star 
and triangle. — This jewel is worn by the Knights, from 
their broad white ribbon — all wear a white cross. 

When a Knight of the E. and W. visit a Lodge of 
Perfection, or the 14 degree, they cannot dispense with 
wearing the ribbon and jewel. They enter the Lodge 
with their hats on, — a naked sword in their hands, with 
a shield, — and when entering, the door is thrown open 
and he is conducted by two masons through the arch, 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 53 

and if the R. W. is not a Knight of the East and West, 
he offers the Prince visitor the East, who may accept, or 
not. — He always sits at the right of the Master. 

LECTURE BY THE PUISSANT. 

Closing of the Council. 

P. What is the o'clock 1 A. There is no more time. 
The Puissant knocks seven times as at the opening, and 
says, — This Council is closed. Which is repeated by 
the two Wardens. 



KNIGHTS OF THE WHITE EAGLE OR PELICAN 

KNOWN AS THE 

SOVEREIGN PRINCE OF ROSE-CROIX DE H. 

For the reception of a Candidate four apartments are 
necessary. The first is an ordinary room and is used 
for preparing the candidate, — who should be dressed in 
black, if possible, and invested with the insignia of his 
preceding Degrees. 

The second room, where the work begins, should have 
black hanging strewed with white stars. The floor en- 
tirely mosaic. It is lighted by 33 tapers in groups of 
11 each. In the angles of the room are three columns, 
about five feet high, which are inscribed thus : in the 
east, Faith, — in the south, Hope, — in the north, Charity. 
The groups of lights may be attached to these columns. 
At the extreme end of the room is an Altar elevated on 
three steps. 

It is covered with a black cloth, on which is delineated 
three crosses, the centre one, bearing the mystic Rose 



54 



TEMPLARS CHART. 



surrounded by a crown of thorns. On the front part 
of the Altar is placed a yellow taper. 

The Altar is hidden by two black curtains, which are 
drawn when required during initiation. Immediately 
in front of the Altar, is placed a small table covered 
with black, on which is placed a Bible, square, and com- 
pass. Also a triangle, a black sash, and a dress for the 
candidate. 

The third room represents a place of torture ; the walls 
are black, and objects of mortality should be painted 
on them, or represented by transparency. The candi- 
date is introduced into this room after the first point 
of initiation, and remains until he is ready to be ushered 
into the fourth room. 

The fourth room should be hung with red, and should 
be furnished as brilliantly as possible, — 33 tapers en- 
lighten it. In the east should be a transparency repre- 
senting a blazing star. In the centre of the star is the 
letter S., and beneath is a representation of an open 
tomb, before which, is a triple triangle, containing three 
Maltese crosses. 

Officers. 

Most Illustrious President. R. Puissant Senior War- 
den. R. Puissant Junior Warden. R. P. Expert. The 
Master of Ceremonies. R. P. Secretary. R. P. Treas- 
urer. R. P. Tyler. 

Dress. 

The dress for the Candidate is white bordered with 
black, made in the form of a short tunic. In front, a 
cross made of scarlet ribbon, corresponding in width 



INEFFABLE DEGREES, 55 

with that used for the border. The same dress may be 
worn by the members, or they may dispense with it, 
but should always be clothed in black. In the second 
room, the members wear a black collar at least three 
inches wide ; on the collar is a scarlet cross, and at the 
point a scarlet rosette. 

In the final portion of the ceremonies is worn a sash 
from shoulder to hip, with the red cross on the breast. 
The apron is white bordered with black, on the flap a 
skull, cross-bones, and the letter J, in the centre of the 
apron a serpent entwining a globe. The Master should 
wear a blazing star on the left breast, in the centre the 
letter G, on the points of the stars F. H. C. The Senior 
Warden wears a triangle, — Junior W. a square and 
compass. The jewel of this degree is a crowned com- 
pass opened on a quarter circle ; between the points of 
the compass, on one side, is a Pelican piercing her breast 
to feed her young,^on the reverse, an eagle, with his 
wings open as if about to fly. 

Between these emblems arise a cross bearing the 
mystic Rose. The compass and circle are gold, — the 
Pelican and eagle silver. 

Form of Petition. 

When a Brother or Companion desires to be received 
into this degree, he should present a petition to the 
Chapter in these terms. 

To the Officers and members of the Sovereign Chapter 
of Rose-Croix De H. under the distinctive title of * * * 
The undersigned, hereof, humbly showeth that he is 
desirous of being invested with a knowledge of perfect 
Masonry, arid humbly requests he may be admitted 



56 templars' chart. 

among the Knights Princes Masons, and he would ever 
pray for the prosperity of the Order and the welfare of 
the Brethren. Signed , &c. 

This petition being presented to the Chapter, will be 
duly considered while the Candidate waits without for 
their decision. Having decided upon the petition it is 
handed the Candidate, on opening of which he finds in- 
dicated the day and hour when he can be received. 

Form of Opening. 

M. Illustrious President addresses the R. P. Expert, 
saying, — You will please examine the avenues and en- 
trances to the Chapter, and see that we are properly 
tyled. The R. P. Expert makes the examination and 
reports, — This Sovereign Chapter is duly tyled. The 
Senior Warden proclaims that all present are Knights 
of the Eagle. The word is passed up to the Sovereign 
from the right and left, when he asks — What is the 
o'clock 1 A. The moment when the veil of the Temple 
was rent asunder — When darkness was spread over the 
face of the earth, — When certain implements of Mason- 
ry were broken, — When the blazing star disappeared, 
and when the cubic stone * S * B * W and W. was 
lost. Sove. Since Masonry has met so great a loss, let 
us employ our efforts to recover what was lost, and for 
this purpose I proclaim this Chapter Duly Opened. R. 
P. Expert exclaims, To your places, Sir Knights. 

Reception of a Candidate. 

After the Candidate is asked if he is willing to assist 
in finding what was formerly lost to the Craft, he is 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 57 

caused to make three voyages and take particular no- 
tice of all he may discover, as he will be required to 
give an account of his journey, to the Grand Council, in 
due time. After the first, second, and third voyages are 
performed, he arrives to that part where he is required 
to agree to the following 

Obligation. 
* * * * * * * # 

Which brings the Candidate to the end of the first 
part of initiation. ***** 

Second point of Initiation. 

After finishing the journeys he is presented with the 
jewel of the Order, — and * * * * 

G. 

There are many interesting things, which will be pre- 
sented to you in confidence, that you will never abuse 
the trust reposed. You will now listen to our R. P. 
Brother Orator, who will give you the history of this 
Degree. 

HISTORY. 

Orator. 

My Brother, — The history of the Degree whose cere- 
mony you have just witnessed, furnishes us with an 
impressive and somewhat peculiar lesson. In order 
fully to understand it, the Candidate should be intimately 
acquainted with the origin and design of the allegorical 
lessons conveyed in the Symbolic Lodge. In the blue 
Degrees we are taught to view Masonry in its operative 



58 templars' chart. 

and speculative forms. Operative, as connected with 
the building of the first Temple, and Speculative in the 
modern form of a society engaged in inculcating sublime 
principles of Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love. 
In the first Degree, we receive instruction in the pre- 
paratory steps to greater mysteries, and light is partially 
revealed to our dazzled vision. In the second, we are 
admitted to a further and more extensive research in the 
great field we have entered upon, and as a reward receive 
a further accession of light, and admission to the middle 
chamber, — thus progressing we arrive at the S. S., and 
view with sorrow the decease of our Illustrious chieftain, 
and see confusion and disorder among the Craft, and 
weep at the loss of so great and so good a man. These 
things teach us the natural progression of human life, — 
they show us the entered apprentice, first entering a 
stage of action, without a knowledge of life, or the 
devious paths of the world. The Fellow Craft calling 
to his aid a knowledge of the liberal arts and sciences, 
and still striving to penetrate the arcana of futurity, and 
finally the Master under the sublime influence of light 
from the East, feasts his senses as it were, with the full 
blaze of noonday ; while to his astonished view is pre- 
sented the terrible part to which vice will lead even 
those, who are admitted to a knowledge of our mysteries, 
and his admiration is equally excited in view of the 
sacrifice of our most precious treasure in preference to 
the violation of those sacred treasures so solemnly com- 
mitted to our keeping. From these also we learn the 
uncertainty of human life, and the vanity of all human 
pursuits, and the immutable certainty of death and 
decay. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 59 

The Temple of Solomon, spacious and magnificent, 
beyond all human calculation, fell before the barbarous 
hand of war, the throne itself crumbled away — its dia- 
dem faded — its coronal withered, and yet the principles 
of our Order, firm as the everlasting hills, still flourish 
in the hearts of true Craftsmen — and a new Temple is 
erected in every faithful Masonic breast. The candidate 
whose mind is stored with the contemplation of these 
interesting truths, arrives at the door of this Sovereign 
Chapter fully prepared to receive and appreciate the 
sublime mysteries of this Degree, — here we soar with a 
wider flight, and take a more philosophical survey of our 
studies — learn to trace the mysteries to their original 
cause. On your first admission to the Chapter, you 
behold the Officers and Brethren plunged in the deepest 
grief. This action on their part, symbolizes two events 
in the world's history. One, the construction of the 
Temple and the consternation of the Craft ; the other, 
the death upon the Cross of the Saviour of mankind. 
A fulfilment of the old law, and the accomplishment of 
the saying, " and thou shalt call his name JESUS ; for 
he shall save his people from their sins." The first is 
alluded to by and the second 

by and by blood and water. Your 

mysterious journeys symbolizes the travels in the wilder- 
ness, and the longing of every christian soul for the time 
when the celestial gates shall be opened for his entrance, 
and eternity burst upon his view. Your journey in the 
chamber of darkness, is symbolical of two events : first, 
the darkness which surrounds the profane; and second, 
when our Saviour gave up the Ghost, but on the third 
day he arose again. The Horrors there presented to 



60 templars' chart. 

you have already been explained ; and finally, as you 
have been admitted to the full light of the fourth apart- 
ment, and perfect Masonry, by the help of what you 
found in your travels, so by the resurrection of Emanuel, 
was salvation bestowed on mankind, and the new law 
of faith forever established. In conclusion, My Brother, 
we congratulate you on the Masonic knowledge you 
have acquired, and your accession to the sublime mys- 
teries and exalted privileges of this Degree. — Keep sacred 
those things that have been committed to your care, and 
so walk before the world that we may have no cause 
to regret that you have been acknowledged a Sovereign 
Prince of Rose-Croix De H. You will now listen to 
the statutes and regulations of this Chapter, by which 
you are hereafter to be governed. 

Statutes of the Chapter of Rose-Croix De H. 

Art. 1st. The principal Festival is held on Thursday 
preceding Good Friday. It is incumbent on all Chapters 
to assemble on that day ; and if a Knight should be 
where there is no Chapter, he is to observe the time in 
communion of spirit with all Knights around the globe. 

Art. 2d. The alphabet of this Degree is as follows 

Art. 3d. All Princes of Rose-Croix are forbidden any 
Chapter or Lodge, without the jewel belonging to this 
Degree, and they should never sign any Masonic docu- 
ment without affixing to their name S. P. R. X. 

Art. 4th. The Princes have the right of presiding in 
all Lodges, working under the Scottish Rite; and if the 
chair is refused them, they take their place at the right 
of the Master. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 61 

Art. 5th. No Chapter can be opened unless three of 
the Officers be present ; and the number of Officers must 
not exceed twelve, — in allusion to the twelve Apostles, 
once the twelve Patriarchs of the old law. The minutes 
must be signed by at least three of the Knights present. 

Art. Qth. A regular Chapter must meet at least four 
times in a year, that is — Thursday after Easter, — Ascen- 
sion Day, — Pentecost Day, — All Saints Day, — and 
above all, Holy Thursday. 

Art. 7th. No Knight of the E. X can refuse to at- 
tend the Chapter when summoned, unless sick — when he 
can present his reasons to the Chapter. 

Art. 8th. No Prince of E. X can fight another under 
any pretence whatever ; on the contrary, they are to aid, 
assist, and protect each other. 

Art. 9th. A Knight of the E. X is bound by his honor 
to the service of his God, his government, and his coun 
try to the last drop of his blood. 

Art. lQth. No Chapter should be held without a col- 
lection for the poor, — the Sovereign is the Treasurer of 
this fund, as necessity may require. 

Art. 11th. No discussions foreign to the business of 
the Chapter can be allowed. Calumny, satire, and per- 
sonal remarks are ever to be avoided as crimes. 

Art. 12th. No document can be valid unless signed 
by the Sovereign, Secretary, and sealed by the Keeper 
of Seals. 

Art. 13th. The Officers must be elected annually on 
Thursday following Easter, and immediately enter on 
their duties. The retiring Officers should be prepared 
to hand their books, accounts, and funds to their succes- 
sors on that day. 



62 TEMPLARS CHART. 

Art. 14th. In passing the ballot, if one black ball ap- 
pear, it must be immediately declared closed at that 
session. It may be opened again at the three following 
sessions, when, if the black ball still appears, the Candi- 
date is forever rejected. 

Art. Ihth. If a Brother falls sick, all the rest must 
visit him, to see that he wants for nothing. 

Art. 16th. Jf a Brother die, all the Knights must at- 
tend the funeral with the black sash and jewel of this 
Degree ; and if the deceased have no relatives they must 
cause his jewel to be buried with him. 

Art. 11th. The name of a deceased brother must not 
be stricken from the rolls, but a skull and cross-bones 
should be delineated beside it to signify that he no longer 
exists. 

To Close. 

Most Illustrious. What is the o'clock 1 S. W. The 
hour of perfect Masonry. M. III. What hour is that % 
S. W. The moment when the word being recovered the 
cubic stone was changed to the Mystic Rose. The 
blazing star appeared in all its glory. When the imple- 
ments of Masonry resumed their form. — When light 
reappeared to our eyes. — When darkness was dissipated. 
Whence the new law is to govern our labors. M. III. 
Let us follow then this new law, since it is the result of 
the mysteries we have seen, and announce that the Sove- 
reign Chapter is closed. 

Installation of the Sovereign Chapter of Rose- Croix De H. 
The Members and Dignitaries of the Consistory and 
Council, and Members of the new Chapter duly assem- 
bled, the G. Commander appoints two brethren to act 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 63 

as Wardens. — One as a guard of the Temple, and the 
other acts as Secretary until the new one is installed. 
The G. C. then proceeds to open the Rose X in the usual 
manner. The Chapter being declared open the ceremo- 
nies of Installation proceed as follows. 

The G. C. asks, Why are we assembled 1 J. W. To 
extend our Order, — A number of Princes of the B. X 
having signified their desire to the Sovereign Consistory 
to be installed a regular Chapter, are now present, and 
wait your pleasure. O. C. Brethren, before proceeding 
with our labors, let us humble ourselves before the 
Throne of Grace. The G. C. leaves his place and kneels 
at the Altar facing the East. The S. W. at his right 
and the J. W. at his left. The rest of the brethren form- 
ing a semicircle around them. The prayer being ended, 
each one retires to his place. The Charter is then read 
and placed on the Altar, and two cross swords upon it, 
when the Brethren of the new Chapter agree to the fol- 
lowing articles. 

First. — To respect and cause to be respected the 
charter confided to your care. 

Second. — To support, stand to, and abide by the su- 
preme G. C. of the 33d Degree, for the N. M. jurisdic- 
tion. 

Third. — Maintain the honor and glory of this G. 
Chapter. 

Fourth. — Mutually protect and assist each other, and 
practice the principles of Masonry. 

Fifth. — Will not admit to this Chapter an unbeliever 
in the New Testament. 

The G. C. then says, In the Name of the Great Archi- 
tect of the Universe, I, by virtue of authority vested in 



64 templars' chart. 

me by the Sovereign, Consistory, and Supreme Council 
of the Northern Masonic jurisdiction, I declare this Sove- 
reign Chapter of Rose-Croix De H. under the distinctive 
title of * * * situated in the valley of * * * 
to be duly installed, and its labors lawfully com- 
menced. 

The G. C. then says, What is next to be done 1 ? A. 
To install the Most Illustrious Brother elected to preside 
over this Chapter. The G. C. says, Let him be present- 
ed ; — Brother, you have been selected by the Royal 
Brethren of this Sovereign Chapter, to preside therein. 
You cannot be insensible to the importance of the duties 
that will devolve upon you. You are to be an example 
and guide to your less informed Brethren ; to govern 
your Chapter with prudence, moderation, and justice, — 
to see that the statutes and regulations of the Chapter 
be duly enforced, and that all lawful edicts of the Sove- 
reign, Consistory, and Supreme Council be strictly 
obeyed. G. C. Are you willing to abide by the follow- 
ing Articles as the presiding Officer of this Chapter 1 
Am. In the affirmative. Which are the following. 

First. — Strictly fulfil the duties thereof. 

Second. — Obey the laws and decrees of the Supreme 
Council. 

Third. — Respect the Charter. 

Fourth. — Maintain peace and harmony. 

Fifth. — Will not abandon my Chapter nor unite with 
a clandestine one. 

The Wardens are then presented, and the G. C. says, 
You have been unanimously elected to preside as War- 
dens in this Sovereign Chapter. On you will devolve 
the duty of assisting *the President in the governing of 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 65 

this Chapter. You also are to superintend the Knights 
placed in your respective columns, — to see that none be 
present except such as be duly qualified ; and to assist 
in maintaining that brotherly love which should ever 
distinguish the Sovereign Brethren of Rose-Croix. G. C. 
asks. Are you willing to abide by the same articles as 
required of your Commander? Ans. We are willing. 

The Wardens then proclaim, By order of the Most 
P. S. G. C, and the representatives of the Sovereign, 
Consistory, and Supreme Council here assembled, I de- 
clare this Chapter of Rose-Croix under the title of * * * 
and the Officers thereof to be duly installed, and the 
labors thereof duly commenced. The Illustrious Presi- 
dent then assumes the Chair. — The Wardens take their 
stations, and the Chapter is closed in form. 

CHARGE. 

Faith. 

Faith is the substance of things hoped for. 

Hope. 
Blessed is the man, &c. 

Charity. 

Though I speak with the tongue of men, and of an- 
gels. — Cor. 

This Chapter may be read as the Candidate passes on 
his mysterious journey. 



66 templars' chart. 



GRAND PONTIFF OR PRUSSIAN KNIGHT. 

There have been different names given to this Degree, 
such as Knights of the White Eagle or Pelican, Perfect 
Master, Knights of the Rose-Croix, Sovereign Princes of 
the Royal Croix De Heradin, and Knights of St. An- 
drew or Grand Pontiff Master ad Vitam. 

Decorations. 
Hangings of blue strewed with gold stars. The Lodge 
is lighted in the East by transparency, and by twelve 
lights distributed across the Lodge from North to 
South. 

Titles, dc. 

The presiding Officer is styled Thrice Puissant Grand 
Pontiff, and is vested with a white satin robe, as are all 
the Brethren ; who go by the name of Faithful and True 
Brethren. They all have a blue satin fillet with twelve 
gold stars on it, worn around the head. There is only 
one Warden, who has a staff of gold in his hand, and 
sits opposite the Grand Pontiff. The T. P. Grand Pon- 
tiff sits under a blue canopy, on a throne in the East, 
before the transparency, holding a sceptre in his hand ; 
on either side of him is a column, on the top of which 
is the letter A, and at the bottom the letter O. The 
Draft of the Lodge represents a square city with open- 
ings on each side, which are to represent three gates on 
a side, — 12 in all. The jewel of the Degree is a square 
plate of gold, on one side is engraved the letter A, on 
the other, the letter O. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 67 

Opening of a Lodge. 

The T. P. Grand Pontiff strikes 12, and then asks, 
What is the o'clock 1 ? A. The hour is foretold. P. 
Faithful Brother, the whole is — let 

the work proceed, and declare the Lodge open. 

The Warden knocks 12, and says, By order of the T. 
P. Grand Pontiff, I declare this Lodge duly opened. 

The Candidate must be decorated with the badge of a 
Knight of the E. and W., and a blue satin fillet with 
12 stars, tied around his head ; when he is introduced 
and shown a diagram or painting representing a moun- 
tain. When he is asked if he will abandon all wicked 
practises, and have no share in their wicked works. 

A painting is here exhibited to him, (a description 
of the city as given by Ezekiel 45 chap.) After being 
shown all that is interesting in the Draft, he is informed 
that his patience and obedience is satisfactory ; when he 
is invested with the important secrets of the Degree. 

H. 

Doctrine and Charge by the Grand Pontiff. 

Brother, — You are now a Supreme Grand Pontiff. 
You have received this Degree in a place peculiarly dear 
to a Brother of this Degree, for S. Grand Pontiffs do 
not want riches or titles to be admitted into this sub- 
lime Lodge, as they prove themselves worthy in their 
attachment to Masonry, and their faithfulness, obedience, 
and true friendship to their Brethren in general. 

The Draft of this Lodge represents a square city of 
four equal sides, with three gates on each side, which 
were explained to you on your reception. 



68 templars' chart. 

To Close. 

T. P. G. P. What is the o'clock ? A. The hour is . 
accomplished, and the G. P. says, 
Let us rejoice; striking 12 times declares the Lodge 
closed. 



GRAND MASTER OF ALL SYMBOLIC DE- 
GREES, OR SOVEREIGN PRINCE OF MASON- 
RY MASTER AD VITAM. 

This Lodge must be decorated with blue and yellow. 
The Grand Master is seated in the East under a canopy, 
on which is painted the All Seeing Eye. The jewel of 
the Degree is a rule and compass. There are eleven 
lights in the Lodge placed in a circular form, in the centre 
of which are various designs drawn ready for the workmen. 
There are hung around the Lodge various emblems of the 
first three Degrees of Masonry. There are two Wardens, 
and their stations are in the West. 

The Grand Master represents Cyrus, Darius, Artax- 
erxes, &c, with all his royal ornaments, with a large 
blue and yellow ribbon across each other. 

There is stationed in the West a candlestick with nine 
branches. 

To Open. 

The Crand Master says, Brethren, 1 desire to open this 
Lodge, — giving three knocks, and asks the station of the 
G. Master. The Senior Warden says, In the East. 
Why in the East? Ans. Because the Sun rises in the 
East to open and adorn the day. The G. Master rising 
says, So rising I declare this Lodge duly opened. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 



The Reception. 



69 



After travelling the ninth time the Candidate agrees 
to the following particulars. 

First. — To protect Masons and Free Masonry. 

Second. — To observe and abide by the statutes. 

Third. — To observe silence to all below them. 

Fourth. — Not to confer the Degree without the con- 
sent of the G. Commander or Deputy. 

I. 

Instruction by ivay of Lecture. 

You are now a Grand Master of Lodges, known at 
Jerusalem to be such. You have travelled from the 
South to the East nine voyages, in memory of the nine 
Grand Masters that travelled to Jerusalem, 



Your attention was called to the candlestick of nine 
branches to remind that no less than nine Masters can 
form a Lodge of Grand Master ad Vitam. You desire 
to be admitted into this Lodge in order to receive the 
two lights you were not acquainted with, and which de- 
noted to you, that you were received by steel and fire. 
The steel in remembrance of the Third Degree 
and the fire, that our forefathers were purified by fire. 

You were received, as Zerubbabel, you are now 
named Cyrus. * * * 

Formerly, all the Lodges were under the name of 
Solomon, as the founder of Masonry, but since the wars 
of the Crusades, we have agreed with the Knights Tern- 



70 templars' chart. 

plars, Hospitalers, and Knights of St. John, to dedicate 
them to St. John the Evangelist, because he was the 
supporter of the new Order and the Christian laws. 

To Close. 
Brother, enter the cave of Siloe, work with the great 
Rafodam, measuring your steps to the sun. Then the 
great black eagle will cover you with his wings, to the 
end of what you desire. 



PATRIARCH NOACHITE, CALLED THE PRUS- 
SIAN KNIGHT. 

Officers of a Chapter. 

1st. The first officer is called Lieutenant Commander, 
and is decorated with a large black ribbon in a triangu- 
lar form around his neck, with an equilateral triangle in 
the centre of which is the letter R engraved thereon, and 
is called the jewel of this Degree. He also wears a 
compass extended on a circle of 60 degrees, with a sun 
in the centre of the same. 

2c?. The second Officer is called Seignor Knight, and 
officiates as S. W. and Grand Inspector, and is decorated 
with the jewel of the Degree, suspended to a narrow 
black ribbon fastened to the third button-hole of his 
coat. 

3d. The third Officer is Junior Knight, and acts as 
J. W., and is called Introductor; he wears the jewel of 
the Degree. 

4th. The fourth Officer is called Knight of Eloquence, 
or Orator ; and wears the jewel of the Order fastened 
to the button-hole of his waistcoat. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 71 

5th. The fifth Officer is called Chancellor, or Grand 
Secretary; and wears the jewel of the Order. 

6th. The sixth Officer is Knight Treasurer, and wears 
the jewel of the Order. 

7th. The seventh Officer is called Knight Captain of 
the Guards, wearing the jewel of the Order. 

The seventh Officer, in addition, wears the helmet or 
cap in the Chapter, while all the rest are uncovered. 
The members are called Prussian Knights or Noachites. 
In case there are but few members present, any three 
of the seven Officers can hold a Chapter to transact 
business. 

The Draft of a Chapter represents the firmament with 
the full moon and stars, on which the eye may rest. 
The place for holding a Chapter should be so situated 
that the full moon and stars could enlighten it through 
one or more windows, as it is not appropriate to admit 
the rays of the sun. There are nine wax candles in 
three rows in front of the altar, but not lighted. 

In the West is a representation of Noah's ark, with a 
dove holding an olive leaf in his beak, flying to the win- 
dow whence it was let out. 

In another part of the room is an urn, made of an 
agate stone. 

Opening of a Chapter. 

S. C. gives three raps, when all the Knights rise with 
drawn swords holding them at due guard. — The L. C. 
asks who were the Sons of Noah 1 S. W. They were 
Shem, Ham, and Japhet. * * The L. C. then declares 
the Chapter duly opened. 



72 templars' chart. 

Requisites of Candidates. 

A Candidate for the Degree must have received the 
Degree of White Eagle, though it is only looked upon 
as the Knight Servant, of the Knight Kadosh or White 
and Black Eagle as it is now called, for reasons known 
to all admitted to this Degree. 

Form of Reception. 

The candidate is introduced in his ordinary dress with 
a sword and plain white apron, by the Introductory who 
gives the pass for the candidate, and requests that he 
may be served as a Prussian Knight. The L. C. asks, 
Who will answer for the good conduct of the candidate % 
The Introductor says, I will answer for him as for my- 
self. The L. C. says, Then let him be admitted. He 
is then admitted, saluting the L. C. The L. C. asks 
the Knights if they consent to receive the candidate as a 
brother Knight. They answer, they do if he will divest 
himself hereafter, of all vain pride and ostentation, which 
he promises to do. Then all the Knights draw their 
swords and present them towards the candidate. * * * 

Obligation. 

Never to suffer any one but a Prussian Knight to 
wear the jewel of this Degree. * J * * 

HISTORICAL DISCOURSE. 

It is stated that the descendants of Noah resolved to 
build a Tower so high as to prevent the Almighty from 
again destroying the world by a flood, and to get them- 
selves a name in the world, — they chose for their pur- 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 73 

pose the Plains of Shinar, in Asia. Ten years after the 
foundations were laid, the Lord, looking down upon 
earth, and beholding the pride and audacious attempt 
of the people, He descended to confound their project 
by causing a confusion of language among the workmen, 
so that they could not understand one another, whence 
it was called Babel. Sometime after, Nimrod established 
a distinction among men, and founded a city, and called 
it Babylon. Tradition says, the Dedication was at the 
full of the moon ; so the festivals of this Degree are 
held in the month of March at the full of the moon. 
Tradition further informs us that after the language was 
confounded at the building of the Tower of Babel, the 
workmen separated and dispersed into different countries. 
The Architect of the Tower travelled into Germany, 
where he arrived after a long and tedious journey, 
living upon roots and other vegetables. He fixed his 
residence in that part now called Prussia, where he 
erected a dwelling to shelter himself from the inclem- 
ency of the weather, and where he also erected many 
-monuments. 

In the year 1553, in digging for salt mines, the work- 
men found the ruins of a triangular edifice 15 cubits 
deep. In the centre of this edifice they found many 
trophies of antiquity. An urn of agate, and many mar- 
ble columns with hieroglyphics. * * * 

Origin of this Degree. 

The most ancient Order of Noachite known are now 
called Prussian Knight Servants of the White and Black 
Eagle, which we gather from the German translation by 



74 templars' chart. 

Berage, Knight of Eloquence and L. Commander of the 
Council of Noachites in France, and Grand Master 
General Commander. The most Illustrious Frederic of 
Brunswick, King of Prussia, was a patron of the Order, 
as also his ancestors for 300 years. This Degree was 
established by the Prussians, — in-order to commemorate 
the discovery of the ancient trophies while digging for 
salt mines, and to perpetuate the building of the Tower 
of Babel by the descendents of Noah. The ark and 
dove illustrate the mercy of the Lord in the preservation 
of Noah and his family, when all the rest of mankind 
were destroyed. 

The Pagans called this Degree by the name of " Pi- 
laus," the name of their Deity, but the Knights of our 
day acknowledge no other God but the Great Architect 
of the Universe, and find it their chief happiness to wor- 
ship Him and keep his commandments. In the times 
of the Crusades the Knights of the different Orders were 
initiated into this Degree by the christian Princes, in 
order to conquer the Holy Land, which was invaded by 
the Infidels. Those Masons that were descended from 
Solomon were most attached to the Noachites, and were 
initiated into their Order and admitted Prussian Knights, 
according to the mysteries of Masonry. Since which 
time none are admitted to this Degree unless they 
have received all the Degrees of ancient Craft Masonry. 

No feastings are allowed in the meetings of this De- 
gree. * * * * 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 75 



PRINCE OF LIBANUS OR PRUSSIAN KNIGHT, 
OR THE ROYAL AXE. 

The Chapter of Princes of Libanus are called Colleges, 
and should be held in a retired place. The Hall so 
arranged as to admit the rays of the Moon ; no other 
lights are used. The Officers are the same as in the 
preceding Degree, as this degree was formerly united 
with that of the Noachites. The jewel of this Degree 
is a triple triangle ; one of the triangles contains a new 
moon, the other two arrows with the points downward. 
A triangular altar is placed in the centre of the room, 
on one side of which is the golden Axe, on the other, a 
naked sword. The College is opened in the same man- 
ner as a Chapter of Noachites. 

Form of Opening. 

The Chief says, * * * * 

K. 

Origin. 

This Degree was established, and added tnereto, on 
different occasions, when the cedars of Lebanon were 
cut down for Holy purposes. The Zidonians were zeal- 
ous for all Holy enterprises. The descendents of Japhet 
cut the cedars for all the Holy purposes of the Temple 
of Solomon. They were furnished under the direction 
of Prince Herodian ; the same nation floated the timbers 
by sea to Joppa, for the Temple and other buildings at 



76 templars' chart. 

Jerusalem. Solomon was so pleased with the fidelity 

of the Zidonians that he built him a house of cedar at 
Lebanon, whither he used to repair yearly to visit Prince 
Herodian. The descendants of these zealous craftsmen, 
furnished timber from the same mountain for the con- 
struction of the second Temple ; by order of Cyrus, 
Darius, and Xerxes, under the guidance of Zerubbabel. 
This celebrated nation formed in the earliest days a col- 
lege for instructing the people, and worshipped the 
great Architect of the Universe. We are indebted to 
these Patriarchs for much knowledge we possess of the 
mysteries of this Degree. The jewel of this Degree is 
thus explained by the L. C, — The new moon in the first 
triangle alludes to an event connected with the friends 
of this Degree. The arrow in the other two triangles, 
to the covenant made by David, and Jonathan, who 
stripped himself of his robe and gave it to David. He 
also agreed to inform David of his father's command 
concerning tym, and if not favorable he should shoot 
three arrows, and say to the lad, "Go thy way, for the 
Lord hath sent thee away." 

The Royal Axe explained. 

The application of the following letters, the initials 
of every name which we retain in our memory. 
L. on the side of the blade of the Royal 

Axe, signifies, .... Lebanon. 
S. on the top of the Royal Axe, . Solomon. 
A. on one side of the handle, . . Abda. 
A. on the same side, . . . Adoniram. 
C Cyrus. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 77 

■D. ...... Darius. 

X Xerxes. 

Z Zerubbabel. 

A. ...... . Ananias. 

S. on the lower blade of the Axe, . Sidonians. 
N. on the top of the handle on the other 

side, Noah. 

S. next on the top of the handle on the 

other side, .... Shem. 

C . Cham. 

J- ...... Japhet. 

M Moses. 

A Aholiab. 

B. . . . . . . Bazaleel. 

On the top of the Axe or jewel, a golden crown to 

hang by a ribbon, or collar of a rainbow color, in the 
form of a collar on the breast ; it may also be worn from 
the right shoulder to the left hip. 

To Close. 
The College is closed in the same way as opened. * * 



CHIEF OF THE TABERNACLE. 

The tapestry of this Lodge is white sustained by red 
and black columns, arranged in pairs, and at such dis- 
tances, as the taste of the Architect may suggest. A 
portion of the hall divided from the rest by a railing and 
red curtains is termed the Sanctuary ; in it is a throne 
elevated on a platform of seven steps, before the throne 
is an altar covered with red — on the altar a Bible and 



78 TEMPLARS 5 CHART. 

a poignard. Above the throne is the Ark of Alliance 
surrounded with rays, — on either side a representation 
of the Sun and Moon. On the right of the first columns 
and a little in front of it is the altar for sacrifices, and 
on the left that for incense. In the West are two can- 
dlesticks of five branches, each in the form of a pyramid, 
— in the East one with two branches. 

The presiding Officer is termed Grand Sacrificator, 
— the two Wardens — Grand Priests, the other brethren 
— Levites. The Lodge is designated, a hierarchy. 

Clothing. 

The Grand Sacrificator wears a long red dress, — over 
this is worn a yellow one, shorter than the first, and 
without sleeves, — he wears a mitre formed of golden 
tissue, in front of which is a Delta with the ineffable 
characters. Over his dress and passing from left to 
right is a black scarf, trimmed with silver fringe, with a 
red rosette at the bottom, from which depends a poign- 
ard. The Wardens or Grand Priests wear the same 
costume, with the exception of the Delta on the front 
of the mitre. The Levites are clothed in white robes, 
over which passes a scarlet sash trimmed with gold 
fringe, — at the bottom is a black rosette to which is sus- 
pended a pot of incense, — the jewel of the Order. 



The ceremonies of this Degree will be omitted, being 
contained in succeeding Degrees. * * * * 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 79 



PRINCE OF THE TABERNACLE. 

There are two apartments, the first, which immediate- 
ly precedes the second, is termed the vestibule. It is 
adorned with a crowned compass extended to 60 degrees, 
and a platform of seven steps, on which is a golden urn. 
The second room is of a circular form and has 49 lights ; 
the decorations of this room vary during the ceremony 
of initiation. In the centre of the room is a candlestick 
with seven branches, beside which is a naked heart. 

The Lodge is called a hierarchy, — the Master is styled 
Most Puissant. There are three Wardens, entitled 
Powerful. 

Clothing. 

A blue silk dress, with a falling collar embellished 
with golden rays ; the body of the dress strewed with 
golden stars. On the head a close crown surrounded 
with stars, and surmounted by a Delta. The scarf of 
crimson- watered silk, is worn from right to left. The 
apron white, lined with crimson. 

M. 

The ceremonies of this Degree will be omitted, being 
contained in the succeeding Degrees. 



80 templars' chart. 



KNIGHTS OF THE BRAZEN SERPENT. 

Decorations. 

The Lodge is festooned with red ; above the throne is 
a transparency resembling the burning bush, and the 
All Seeing Eye. 

In the centre of the Lodge is a cone representing a 
mountain, on which is a cross with a serpent entwined 
thereon, over which are the letters V and C. At the 
foot of the mountain a lamb. The Lodge is lighted by 
a single flambeau. 

The Chief Officer receives the appellation of Most 
Powerful Grand Master. The Wardens are called 
Ministers, and the Brethren, Knights. There is also an 
Inspector, the candidate a traveller. 

Clothing. 

A scarlet sash, on which is painted or embroidered 
the motto, — Virtue and Courage. The jewel is a ser- 
pent entwined around a rod terminating in a T; it repre- 
sents the serpent that Moses set up in the wilderness in 
the camp of the Israelites, by looking upon which they 
were healed of the wounds caused by the serpents that 
had pursued them in the Desert. 

The brazen serpent was afterward carefully preserved 
in the Temple, but as it finally became an object of 
idolatry to the Jews, Hezekiah, king of the Jews caused 
it to be broken in pieces. 

N. 
Ceremonies of this Degree win be omitted as in the 
two preceding ones. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 81 

PRINCE OF MERCY. 

Decorations. 

Hangings of green drapery, supported by nine col- 
umns alternately red and white. At each column is 
an arm or branch bearing nine candles, making in all 
81 lights. 

The throne is placed beneath a canopy formed of red, 
white, and green. Behind the canopy a transparency of 
a triangle and three circles. Before the throne is a 
table covered with a cloth. There are arranged in the 
Lodge a crown, two arrows crossed, a lamb, and the 
Mercy seat. The Master uses an arrow instead of a 
jewel ; the feathered part of the arrow is stained green 
on one side, and red on the other. The shaft is white, 
the head gold ; the altar is a statue of Ruth covered 
with a veil, composed of the three colors of the Degree. 
f 

Titles. 

1st. Most Excellent Master. 

2d. Sacrificator. 

3d. Guardian of the Statue. 

The M. E. is clothed in a long tunic of three colors, 
green, white, and red ; he wears a crown surmounted 
with arrow points. The Members wear a red apron, in 
the centre of which are painted or embroidered two 
arrows crossed, and a sash displaying the three colors 
of the Degree. To which is suspended the jewel, which 
is a golden equilateral triangle. 



TEMPLARS CHART. 



o. 

The ceremonies of this Degree are omitted. 



COMMANDER OF THE TEMPLE. 

Description. 

The hangings are red, with throne and canopy of the 
same, on which black stars are strewn. 

In the centre of the Lodge is a small altar, around 
which in a circular form in two rows are 27 lights in 
each row, and on a round table are placed 27 other 
lights, making in all 81. An open compass hung up in 
" the East with a Maltese and red cross, one on the right 
and the other on the left of the President. In the West 
are a double triangle and key. 

Titles. 

This Lodge is called a Court ; the first Officer i» called, 
Most Puissant ; the Wardens, Sovereign Commanders ; 
and the Members, Commanders. 

Opening. 

The M. Puissant requests the assistance of the Sove- 
reign Commanders in opening the Court, and gives five 
knocks, when all the members place themselves around 
the table, when a suitable prayer is made ; after which 
the Puissant kisses the Book of Wisdom, which is fol- 
lowed by all the Members. The Puissant then asks the 
time of operations. The answer is, Any hour that is 
complete. As the present hour is one of operation, join 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 83 

yourselves with me to open the Court of the sublime 
Degree of Grand Commander of the Temple, and an- 
nounce afterward to all regular Masons that it is my 
wish All the Commanders respond 

when the Court is pronounced to be open in due form. 

Reception 

The Conductor says, Here is that Expert Mason who 
wishes the recompense of his zeal. He is then exam- 
ined, when asked, What are your wishes ? To participate 
in your operations, as I am an Expert Mason and hope 
for every thing. 

The Candidate is admitted, and agrees to keep the 
secrets of this Degree and nothing more. 

The Candidate is then requested to go through his 
five rounds of trials; when they are completed, the 
Commanders chant a hymn. Ex. xv : 1, 2. Then sang 
Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the Lord, 
and spake, saying, 1 will sing unto the Lord, for he hath 
triumphed gloriously ; the horse and his rider hath he 
thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and song, 
and he is become my salvation ; he is my God, and I 
will prepare him an habitation ; My father's God, and I 
will exalt him. 

After the hymn, the Grand Puissant explains to the 
Candidate the various ceremonies of the Degree, and 
presents him with a crown of laurel, which is placed 
upon his head by the M. P., saying, This trophy an- 
nounces to you the antiquity of the Order, and the faith 
you must always have in the Great Architect of the 
Universe. He is also presented with a palm ornamented 
with five crosses. This emblem denotes the union and 



84 TEMPLARS CHART. 

benevolence which should ever prevail among the mem- 
bers of this degree ; it teaches us that the unfortunate 
should ever find succor among us, and that true delight 
is found in wiping away the tears of the wretched. He 
receives the apron and gloves as emblems of his rank in, 
and privileges among, the craft. The key, while it calls 
to his attention the sublime mysteries of the Order, re- 
minds him that he should set a careful watch upon his 
thoughts, words, and actions ; and the jewel, while it 
reminds him of his vows, teaches him that a faithful 
adherence to them will console his dying moments with 
the hope of a blissful immortality. 



The ceremonies conclude with an impressive exhorta- 
tion to the candidate. 



KNIGHTS OF THE SUN. 

Form of Lodge. 

The Master is styled Thrice Faithful Father Adam. 
He sits in the East, under a pale yellow canopy, richly 
adorned with a representation of the sun. He is clothed 
in a pale yellow silk robe ; a turban on his head, and a 
sceptre of gold in one hand, and a globe in the other. 
His jewel is a square gold medal ; on one side is en- 
graved the sun, on the other a globe, — there is but one 
Warden, who is styled Truth, and is seated in the West, 
having the same colored robe and jewel. In the centre 
of the Lodge is a triangular altar. In the West a large 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 85 

triangle with the mystic characters in the centre. On 
each angle of the triangle is the letter S. for stella, sedet, 
soli, (silence, wisdom, morality.) 

Opening-. 

The Thrice Perfect knocks six times, and asks, What 
is the o'clock 1 The Warden Truth answers, It is mid- 
night on many parts of the earth, but here the sun is at 
its meridian height. Then announce this Lodge duly 
open. The Warden Truth says, It is so done, Amen. 

Q. 

Reception. 
The candidate, after occupying for a time the chamber 
of reception, is received in the usual form ; when he 
agrees not to refuse a Brother any reasonable request 
that he can grant without any detriment to himself; he 
will support the christian religion, and will not support 
any who is a blasphemer. He is then invested with the 
secrets of the Degree. 

R. 

The Lecture is then given to the Candidate, and the 
Lodge is closed with an explanation of the various or- 
naments of the Lodge. 



PATRIARCH -OF THE CRUSADES. 

Decorations. 

Red drapery supported by white columns. The seats 
of the Master and Wardens are red, trimmed with gold 
fringe ; those for the members are blue. The cross of 



86 TEMPLARS CHART. 

St. Andrew is placed in each corner of the room, and 
immediately in front of each are four lights, making 
16 in all. The whole number of lights required is 81 ; 
two on the triangular altar, seven groups of nine each, 
and 16 before mentioned. The Lodge is called a Grand 
Lodge ; the Master is styled Patriarch ; and the mem 
bers, Respectable Masters. The clothing is a scarlet 
robe and sash of the same color, with a red and green 
rosette from which hangs the jewel. A green collar 
trimmed with red is sometimes worn in place of the 
scarf, and a white silk girdle with a gold fringe. The 
jewel is a compass within three triangles which are en- 
closed in a large one, beneath which is a square reversed 
with a poignard in the angle ; when the collar is worn, 
the jewel is St. Andrew's cross, surmounted by a crown 
at the junction or centre of the cross J, enclosed in a 
triangle with a circle; from the circle depends a key ; 
on the extremities of the cross are the letters B. M. J. N. 

S. 



K— H. GRAND ELECT KNIGHT. 

Knights of the K-H. or White and Black Eagle. 
Apare et Sege-Dice et Pace. 
The ne plus ultra of Masonry. 
Chapter of the Grand Inspector of Lodges. Grand 
Elected Knights of Kadosh, known by the title of White 
and Black Eagle. The Chief of this Order is the Thrice 
Illustrious Frederic III., king of Prussia, under the title 
of Thrice Illustrious Knight Grand Commander. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 87 

To form the Chapter or Consistory 

The Chapter of the Grand Elected must be composed 
of five brothers — every one vested in this Degree; they 
must be all in black with white gloves. The Order is 
a broad black ribbon from the left shoulder to the right 
hip, to which hangs the attribute of the Order, being a 
red cross, the same as the Teutonic Knights, to wear in 
the middle of two swords, a cross like a St. Andrew's. 
No aprons are worn. There are no decorations nor em- 
blems in this department of the Chapter, as the curtains 
are entirely drawn. There is only figured on the thres- 
hold the mysterious ladder, which is covered until the 
candidate has taken his obligation. They have five 
companions that compose a Chapter at the reception ; 
two are with the candidate in another apartment until 
introduced, and the other three remain in the Chapter 
to make the necessary preparations. When the candi- 
date is received, the Grand Commander is so situated 
that he is not discovered by the candidate, nor does he 
know who initiates him. 

To Open the Chapter. 

G. C. Illustrious Knight, are you an elected Knight % 
I am. How came you to be so ? Fortune decided for 
me. What proofs can you give of your reception 1 A 
cavern has witnessed it. What did you in the cavern'? 
I executed justice. Have you penetrated any further 1 ? 
I have. How may I believe you ? My name is Knight 
of Kadosh, or White and Black Eagle. Do you under- 
stand all 1 I do. What is the o'clock 1 The hour of 
silence. Knights, give me the sign of surprise. Knights 



88 TEMPLARS 7 CHART. 

all draw their swords. The Grand Commander then 
knocks on the throne and says, The Chapter is opened. 

Reception. 

The Candidate is left in an apartment with two of his 
companions, until asked what are his wishes % His an- 
swer is, I am a servant Knight who requests to come to 
the degree of Knight Elect of Kadosh, as he has all 
the requisites which are necessary. G. C. Can we ad- 
mit this candidate without any indiscretion from him ? 
The two Knights say, We promise for him. They then 
form a circle round the altar, and kneel. * * * * The 
G. C. says, He who has bestowed this Degree on you, 
and who is Grand Commander and Grand Inspector of 
all Lodges, and Grand Elect, feels the importance of the 
secret already confided to you, and would recommend 
to you circumspection, as you take the name of Knight 
of Kadosh or Black and White Eagle. Be attentive not 
to give the least intimation of our mysteries to the un- 
initiated. The imprudence and indiscretion of some 
have given to the world a knowledge of some of our 
secrets, by which the Order has suffered. These indis- 
cretions have caused the loss of many a Puissant Knight, 
who would have been an ornament to the Lodge. As 
there are no more emblems to be explained beyond this 
Degree, let no inducement lead you to disclose those 
now committed to your knowledge. Every matter of 
importance shall be described to you that will give room 
for further instruction. Prayer. * * * Amen Ex- 
plain. — When the veil is removed from the Draft 
and explained. Then the G. C. says, How great have 
been the Orders of this Degree, when its power, author- 



INEFFABLE DEGREP 



ity, and riches were carried to its highest pitch, and the 
distinguished brethren of those who were members of 
its celebrated glory. It was not so in its unjust and 
tragic end, when the noble firmness of the Knights 
appeared in the midst of flames and torment. After 
the Candidate has finished his agreement, the G. C. 
raises him and says, By the seven Conditions and the 
power that is given me, and which 1 have acquired 
by my discretion, zeal, and constancy, I receive you a 
Grand Inspector of all Lodges, and Elect Knight ; but 
before you take rank among the Knights of Kadosh of 
which we bear the name, I desire you not to forget the 
indispensable necessity of mounting the mysterious lad- 
der * * * * it will serve to instruct you in the mys- 
teries of our Order, of which it is absolutely necessary 
for you to have a true knowledge. 

Mysteries of the ladder explained. * * * 



After the death of Pope Boniface the XI., July 13th, 
1304, the Cardinals met for the election of a new Pope, 
and found themselves in two factions, French and Italian. 
Philip the Fair, king of France, had then several views 
which could not be accomplished without the assistance 
of the Pope to be elected ; and as his party in the con- 
clave fomented these divisions to favor Philip's design, 
he sent for Bertrand Gol, Archbishop of Bordeaux, son to 
Bertrand, Lord of Killandrow, in the same diocese; and 
in the conference which he had with him at a pleasant 
country-seat near St. John of Angely, he informed 
him of his designs, and the divisions in the conclave — 
which put it in his power to elect a Pope; and that he 



90 TExMPLARs' CHART. 

was disposed to prefer him, provided he would swear to 
perform seven articles ; the 7th of which was even to be 
a secret to him, until the time for the execution of it 
should be ripe. Accordingly, he revealed the 6 first ar- 
ticles, which are foreign to our purpose ; but not the 7th 
for the exact performance of which they took the sacra- 
ment to each other's promise. The king having found 
a man to his purpose, to be agent to his revenge, caused 
him to be elected Pope and promoted to St. Peter's 
Chair. In the year 1305, under the name of Clement 
VI., this Pope established his See at Lyons, where his 
first care was to execute the first six conditions ; when 
Philip did not delay in declaring the 7th to the Pope, — 
that by his oath he was to join him in entirely destroy- 
ing and exterminating the Knight Templars, to the ex- 
tent of Christianity. Here is what had attracted the 
hatred of Philip the Fair, and what made him take that 
barbarous resolution against them all : — Sometime be- 
fore the death of Boniface XI., there happened a sedition 
in Paris, occasioned by Philip, who had coined some 
money which was light, and mixed with base metal ; on 
which the populace were mutinous, and plundered and de- 
molished the house of Peter Barbe, master of the mint. 
They went afterwards to the king's dwelling, and com- 
mitted great indecency. The Templars were suspected 
to have been at the bottom of these outrages, and their 
ruin was determined by the king; for which purpose he 
sought the means to assist himself by the death of Bon- 
iface XL, in order to put in a Pope, on certain conditions 
that should be imposed on him. Nothing was now 
wanting but the pretense ; for which purpose they pre- 
vailed on two abandoned men, that they should get ad- 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 91 

mittance among the Knight Templars, and when admitted 
into their mysteries, to accuse the whole Order of the 
greatest of crimes, — which was done. Their names were 
Gerard, Labe, and Benoit Mehuy. They desired to be 
admitted into the Order, which was easy for them, as 
they had seemingly Jionest titles and apparent qualities, 
besides a supposed credit at Court; every matter con- 
spired in their favor, and they were received. But it 
lasted not long before the Templars repented heartily 
of having lighted the firebrand, which was the cause of 
the deplorable and tragic scene when all the Templars 
were involved in one common destruction; for these 
two wretches, soon after their admission, accused the 
whole Order of the most dreadful crimes, demanding to 
be separated from them on account of the execrable 
things suggested to them. The treason is good, but the 
traitor detestable, — thus did they suffer the same lot 
that was kept for the Templars ; for by their treachery 
they went through the most dismal torments of ven- 
geance by their false accusations. Upon this report to 
the king he took the secret measures to arrest all the 
Templars in his dominions, in one day, viz., Oct. 13th, 
1307, two years after the infamous accusation was 
made. They seized on all the papers, titles, treasures, 
and generally all their wealth ; over which were placed 
overseers. King Charles of Naples in like manner or- 
dered all the Templars to be arrested in Provence. 
Those taken in France were locked up in the castle of 
Meleen, to take their trial. The Pope at the same time 
sent for their Grand Master, James de Molay. As soon 
as he received the order, he came to Paris, with 60 
Knights of the Order. They were all arrested and made 



92 templars' chart. 

to suffer the most dreadful torments in order to draw 
from them a confession of the crimes they were accused 
of, though without effect, as they bravely dared every 
torment rather than accuse themselves of crimes they 
were innocent of, so that on no other proof but the ac- 
cusation of two infamous wretches, they concluded their 
trials ; and they executed and burnt alive 57 in one day, 
and the next day 59, and so on until they had completed 
almost their total destruction. They pardoned none, 
not even those two that served them in accusing the 
whole Order, for as Templars they were included in the 
genera] sentence and were burnt alive. The G. M. and 
the three above-mentioned brethren were nevertheless 
not comprehended in the first execution ; the Pope kept 
their judgment to himself. The most of the Templars 
in this persecution were arrested in all christian states, 
but were not all put to death. 

Philip the Fair was continually hurrying the Pope to 
make an end of James de Molay and his three com- 
panions ; after having groaned seven years in prison 
loaded with irons, they were at last executed and burnt 
alive, March 11th, 1314, in the Isle of Paris; moving" to 
pity and tears the numerous spectators who were pres- 
ent, for their steadiness, heroic constancy, and solemn 
vows of their innocence, which was afterward made ap- 
parent b-y an event extremely miraculous. James de 
Molay seeing himself on the scaffold ready to end his 
life in the flames, directed to God the following prayer. 

Prayer of James de Molay. 

Oh, Almighty and everlasting God, who knowest the 
innocence of the victims which have been sacrificed, lead 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 93 

our minds to reflect on the reproach and sorrow which 
attended the death of thine only Son to redeem us from 
the slavery of our sins. Forgive the false accusations 
and imputations which have caused the destruction of 
the whole Order, and permit that one day the eyes of 
our accusers may be opened to our innocence, for we 
have endeavored to walk and to live in Thy fear. 
Amen. 

Then addressing himself to the people, he said : — Good 
people, who see us ready to perish in the flames, you 
will be able to judge of our innocence, for now I summon 
Pope Clement the 6lh in forty days, and Philip the Fair 
in twelve months, to appear before the awful and tre- 
mendous throne of God, to render an account for the 
blood they have so wickedly shed. After which they 
were hurried to execution, fearing a rescue from the 
people. 

The summons of James de Molay was accomplished, 
as Pope Clement VI. died the 19th of April the same 
year, at Rocqanour, on the Rhine ; and Philip the Fair 
in a twelve month, at Fontainbleau. The news of the 
persecution of the Templars had already reached the 
Knights who were left in the Island of Cyprus, and in the 
absence of the Grand Master had been overpowered by 
the Turks ; when they lost Acre, with several other 
strong holds, and were obliged to retire to the Isle of 
Rhodes and the adjacent islands. The persecution 
against them in open council at Kienna, Oct. 1st, 1311, 
when their Order was banished, their estates confiscated 
and left at the disposal of the Pope, who in 1312 gave 
a part to the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. Those 
who had escaped the persecution, and had retired to the 



94 templars' chart. 

Island of Rhodes, were obliged to disguise themselves, 
not losing entirely the hope of seeing the Order rein- 
stated again. 

They all swore revenge against the Knights of St. 
John of Jerusalem, who possess to this day the greatest 
part of their estates. This aversion to this day makes 
a part of the obligation of the Grand Elected Knight 
Templars, called Knights of K-H. or White and Black 
Eagle. As the number of those who escaped was very 
small, they sought to renew and increase in their Order 
that aversion, in admitting persons in whom they believ- 
ed that their behavior and quality were indispensable. 
A union now took place among the remaining Grand 
Elected Knights, and the fraternity of Free Masons, — 
the decorations and signs were changed in order to avoid 
the maliciousness of those who were inimical to the 
Order. 

My dear brother, from the degrees which you have 
received, you have learned to shed tears at the tomb, 
and have been instructed to take vengeance. When 
you compare the deeds of the murderers in former de- 
grees with the conduct of Philip the Fair, Gerard, Labe 
Benoit, and Mehuy, do not such conduct and misdeeds 
kindle in you a spirit of revenge'? * * * The brother 
who desires to be better acquainted with the history, 
may consult various authors of the Orders of Knight- 
hood. The Candidate is invested with all the mysteries 
of the Degree. 

T. 

The Lodge is closed. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 95 

GRAND INQUISITOR COMMANDER. 

Decorations. 

White hangings sustained by eight gilded columns, 
with a Maltese and Teutonic cross on either side of an 
equilateral triangle ; in the centre of which is the num- 
ber of 30, and Hebrew characters. 



The Lodge is called a Sovereign Tribunal. The first 
Officer bears the title of Perfect Puissant; the two 
Wardens that of Inspectors ; the Secretary that of 
Chancellor ; and the other members that of Most En- 
lightened. 

Clothing. 

No apron is worn in the Sovereign Tribunal ; when 
the members visit Lodges of inferior Degrees, they wear 
a white apron, on the top of which is embroidered the 
cross of a Teutonic Knight, which belongs to this De- 
gree. A white collar is also worn, on which is a triangle, 
with the number 30 in the centre and the Hebrew char- 
acters. A silver cross is the jewel of the Order, with a 
chain to represent the emblems of the symbolic degrees 
of Masonry. The conferring of this Degree is very 
short, and is considered in the 

U. 



96 templars' chart. 



SOVEREIGN PRINCE OF THE ROYAL SECRET 

The ne plus ultra, or Knights of St. Andrew, and the 
Faithful Guardians of the Sacred Treasure. 

Preparation. 

The decorations for fitting up the apartments neces- 
sary for holding a Grand Council of the Royal Secret. 
The Grand Council must be held in the open country, 
on a rising ground, and in a building of at least two 
stories. On the second floor must be three apartments 
where the Grand Council is held ; and such meeting 
must be in the day-time, and must be as follows : — 

1st. There are two Tylers on the first floor ; one to 
tyle everywhere, and the other on the stairs. The first 
apartment up stairs is for the guards ; the second for 
preparing the candidate, and the third for the Council 
or the reception. 

This apartment is hung with black satin strewed with 
silver stars, cross-bone, and skull. 

2d. There must be a throne erected in the East, under 
which must be a chair of State for the Sovereign of 
Sovereigns and Grand Illustrious Prince, who is the 
Commander-in-Chief. The throne is to be ascended by 
five steps ; and lined with black satin with fiery flames, 
without stars. Before the Sovereign is a table covered 
with black satin, and strewed with stars ; and on the 
fore part of the cloth are to be a skull and two cross- 
bones, with the initials I, M.,— -the I. over the head, the 
M. under the bones. 

3 c/, The Sovereign G. C, is to be armed with a buck- 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 97 

ler and a naked sword ; a sceptre and balance on the 
table before him, without any books except that of our 
laws. 

4th. In the West facing the G. C. are placed the two 
Wardens, entitled Lieutenant Commanders ; they are to 
wear bucklers and a cap, as also the G. C. ; their swords 
and a cross on the table before them. Their table is to 
be covered with crimson satin, and bordered with black 
satin strewed with silver stars. On the fore part are 
the initials N. K. and M. K., embroidered in gold. 

5th. Minister of State at the right hand of the Sove- 
reign, acts as orator. 

Qth. The Grand Chancellor at the left of the Sove- 
reign. 

7th. Next the Minister of State stands the Grand 
Secretary. 

8th. Next to the Grand Chancellor stands the Grand 
Treasurer. 

9th. Below them on one side is placed the Ensigneur, 
who is Grand Master Architect ; on the opposite side the 
Grand Captain of Guards. 

lO^A. Six members stand below these dressed in red, 
without aprons, all of them wearing the jewel of the 
Order on their breasts, suspended by a large black rib- 
bon in a triangular form. The Royal Secret of the ren- 
dezvous of the Sublime Prince. 

Instructions for receiving of the Brother Knights' Secret, 
and the Commanders of the Royal Secret of Kadosh, 
which signifies, the Holy Brothers. 1st. Frederic III., king 
of Prussia, Grand Master and Commander in Chief, with 
an army composed of the Knights Princes of the Black 
and White Eagle, including Prussians, English, and 



98 templars' chart. 

French; likewise joined by the Princes of Lebanon, 
Knights of Rose- Croix, Knights of the East and West, 
Princes of Jerusalem, &c, &c. 

Description of the Draft. — [See Key.~\ 

The equilateral triangle in the centre of the Draft, 
represents the centre of the army, and shows where the 
Knights of Malta are to be placed who have been ad- 
mitted into our mysteries, and shown themselves faith- 
ful guardians of the Order; they are joined by the 
Knights of the Black and White Eagle. The corps in 
the pentagon is to be commanded by five Princes, who 
are to take the command jointly, by rotation according 
to their degrees, and receive their orders immediately 
from the Grand Master, Commander in Chief. These 
five Princes shall fix their standards in the five angles 
of the pentagon as follows — 

ls^. The standard or flag P, bearing arms, a golden 
lion holding in his mouth a key of gold, wearing a golden 
collar with the letters S. G. S., azure field, inscription, 
ad majorem Dei gloriam. 

2d. The standard or flag of E, an inflamed heart with 
red or sable wings, crowned with laurel, — the field, 
white. 

3d. A spread eagle with two heads, a golden crown 
connecting both heads in the form of a collar. The 
eagle holding a naked sword in his claws, — field, light 
green. 

4th. The standard flag G, bearing an ox — field, sable. 

hth. The standard flag U, ark of the covenant, with 
two light green palm trees, — field, purple, inscription, 
Laus Deo. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 99 

The heptagon represented in the Draft, is the encamp- 
ment of Masons of all denominations. 

1st. Rendezvous shall be at the post of Naples. 

2d. At Rhodes. 

3d. " Cyprus. 

4th. " Malta, where the whole naval force of all na- 
tions is to be assembled. 

5th. At Joppa. 

6th., and 1th. The land forces to assemble at Jerusa- 
lem. The watchwords for every day of the week are 
as follows, and not to be changed but by the express 
order of the king of Prussia. 



1. Sunday 


C. 


E. 


2. Monday 


D. 


D. 


3. Tuesday 


X. 


H. 


4. Wednesday 


A. 


L. 


5. Thursday 


P. 


A. 


6. Friday 


H. 


Z. 


7. Saturday 


Z. 


M. 



The nonagon represents the tents, and the initials are 
J. N. O. N. X. I. L. A. S. 

The hour fixed shall be the fifth after sunset, and shall 
be known by the firing of five guns. 



100 INEFFABLE DEGREES. 

SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL 
OF THE THIRTY-THIRD DEGREE. 

Decorations. 

Hangings purple; skeletons, deaths' heads, cross- 
bones, etc., painted or embroidered thereon. 

Beneath the canopy is a transparency representing a 

delta, in the centre of which are seen the characters . 

Toward the centre of the room is a quadrangular pedes- 
tal, covered with scarlet cloth, on which rests the Holy 
Bible, covered with a naked sword. On the left of the 
pedestal, is placed the white banner of the Order. 
Over the interior portion of the entrance, is a blue 
scarf, bearing the device, Deus Meumque Jus. In the 
East is a candlestick with five branches ; in the West, 
one with three branches ; in the North, one with a single 
branch, and in the South, another with two ; producing 
altogether eleven lights. 

Titles. 

The Assembly is a Supreme Council. 

The Grand Master is styled Most Powerful Sovereign 
Grand Commander, and represents Frederick II., king 
of Prussia. The other officers are, Illustrious Deputy 
Grand Commander, Sovereign Lieutenant Commander, 
Illustrious Grand Secretary, Illustrious Minister of State, 
Illustrious Grand Treasurer, Illustrious Grand Keeper of 
the Seals, Illustrious Master of Ceremonies, Illustrious 
Captain of the Guards. The members of the Council 
are styled Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspectors 
General. 



TEMPLARS CHART. 101 

Clothing. 

The Most Powerful Grand Commander is clothed in 
a robe of scarlet satin, bordered with white. He wears 
a royal crown, and has a naked sword in his right hand. 
The Lieutenant Grand Commander has a blue dress, a 
ducal crown, and a drawn sword. The Captain of the 
Guards wears an ancient military costume. All the 
members of the Supreme Council wear a white watered 
silk scarf, embroidered, bound and fringed with gold. 
At the bottom of the sash is a white, red, and green 
rosette. On the front is embroidered in gold, a delta, 
surrounded with rays ; on two sides of the delta, a 
poniard directed towards the centre, in which are the 
figures 33, in Arabic characters. The sash is worn from 
left to right. On the left side of the coat is worn a red 
Teutonic cross. 

The jewel is a large black eagle, with two heads, and 
crowned, having the wings open as if about to fly, hold- 
ing a sword in the claws. The beak, claws, and sword 
are gold. The jewel may be worn suspended from the 
sash, or from a gold chain passed around the neck. 

This degree, which is the chief tribunal of Masonry in 
the rite to which it belongs, was instituted in the year 
1786, under the following circumstances : 

By the constitutions of the Scotch rite, which were 
ratified on the 25th of October, 1762, the king of Prussia 
was proclaimed as its chief, with the title of Sovereign 
Grand Inspector General and Grand Commander. The 
higher Councils and Chapters could not be opened with- 
out his presence, or that of a substitute appointed by 
him. All the transactions of the Consistory of the 



102 INEFFABLE DEGREES. 

thirty-second degree, then the highest, required his sanc- 
tion, or that of his substitute, and various other Masonic 
prerogatives were attached to his office. 

No provision had, however, been made in the consti- 
tutions for his successor, and as it was absolutely neces- 
sary that some arrangements should be made, by which 
the supreme power should not become extinct on his 
death, the king established the thirty-third degree, out 
of the possessors of which the Supreme Council is 
formed ; a body possessing all the Masonic rights and 
prerogatives formerly exercised by the king of Prussia. 

Not more than one Supreme Council can exist in each 
State, and it must be composed of nine members, called 
Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, five of whom, at 
least, must profess the Christian religion. Not less than 
three constitute a quorum for the transaction of busi- 
ness. 

In 1765, the Lodges and Councils of the superior de- 
grees, being extended throughout the continent of Europe, 
Frederick II., king of Prussia, as Grand Commander of 
the Order of Prince of the Royal Secret, was acknow- 
ledged as the head of the Scotch rite. The Duke of 
Sudermania was his deputy in Sweden, and Louis of 
Bourbon in France. 

On the 25th of October, 1762, the Grand Masonic 
Constitutions were finally • ratified in Berlin, and pro- 
claimed for the government of all Masonic bodies, work- 
ing in the Scotch rite, over the two hemispheres. 

In the same year, they were transmitted to Stephen 
Morin, who had been appointed, in August, 1761, In- 
spector General for the New World, by the Grand Con- 
sistory of Princes of the Royal Secret, convened at 



templars' chart. 103 

Paris, under the Presidency of Chaillon de Joinville, 
Substitute General of the Order. 

When Morin arrived in America, he, agreeable to his 
patent, appointed a Deputy Inspector General. This 
honor was conferred on M. Hayes, with the power of 
appointing others where necessary. 

Hayes appointed Isaac Da Costa, Deputy Inspector 
General for the State of South Carolina, who, in 1783, 
established a Sublime Grand Lodge of Perfection in 
Charleston. After Da Costa's death, Joseph Myers was 
appointed to succeed him, by Hayes, who also appointed 
Solomon Bush, Deputy Inspector General for Pennsyl- 
vania, and Bareu d M. Spitzer, for Georgia ; which ap- 
pointments were confirmed by a Council of Inspectors 
that convened in Philadelphia, on the 15th of June, 1781. 

On the 1st of May, 1786, the Grand Constitution of 
the Supreme Council of the thirty-third degree, was 
ratified by the king of Prussia, by which the Masonic 
prerogatives of Inspectors were deposited in a Council 
consisting of nine brethren in each nation. 

On the 20th of February, 1788, a Grand Council of 
Princes of Jerusalem was opened in Charleston, by 
Myers, Spitzer, and A. Forst, Deputy Inspector General 
for Virginia. 

In 1795, Colonel John Mitchell was appointed by 
Spitzer, a Deputy Inspector General, in the place of 
Myers, who had removed ; but he was restricted from 
acting until after Myers' death, which took place in the 
following year. 

On the 31st of May, 1801, the Supreme Council of 
the thirty-third degree was opened in Charleston, with 
the grand honors of Masonry, by John Mitchell and 



104 INEFFABLE DEGREES. 

Frederick Dalcho, Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 
and, in the course of the succeeding two years, the 
whole number of Inspectors General was completed. 

This was the origin of the Scotch rite in the United 
States, of which there now exists two Supreme Coun- 
cils ; one at Charleston, South Carolina, and another in 
the city of New York. 

On the 21st February, 1802., Count Alexander Fran- 
cois August De Grasse, Deputy Inspector General, was 
appointed by the Supreme Council, of Charleston, S. C, 
Grand Inspector General and Grand Commander of the 
French West Indies, and Jean Baptiste Marie De La 
Hogue as Lieutenant Commander for the same island. 

The Supreme Council of New Orleans, La., was 
established there by the Grand Orient of France, in 
1795, while that portion of our land was French terri- 
tory. During the administration of Thomas Jefferson, 
it was ceded to the United States, and became a State. 
A dispute at once arose between the two Councils con- 
cerning supremacy. The Constitution of the Order de- 
clared that there should be but one Supreme Council in 
a nation. Louisiana declared that her date was the 
oldest, and consequently the first, while Charleston in- 
sisted that she was first in America, and of course 
entitled to the position which she had assumed. The 
quarrel became earnest ; both parties appealed to the 
Grand Orient. She, on her part, declined to interfere. 
Charleston at once repudiated her authority, threw her- 
self under the protection of Count De Grasse, one of 
her own Inspectors, and denounced the Louisiana Council 
as illegal and not to be countenanced by the fraternity 
at large. 



templars' chart. 105 

The Grand Orient of France, on receiving this intelli- 
gence, at once deputized Mr. Joseph Cerneau to form a 
Supreme Council in the city of New York, for the 
Northern jurisdiction. This took place, October, 1807. 
Joseph Cerneau was Grand Commander until 1808, 
when he retired to give place to John W. Mulligan, and 
became Honorary Past Grand Commander, ad vitam. 
Hon. De Witt Clinton succeeded Mr. Mulligan, and 
kept the post of Commander until the arrival and recep- 
tion of Marquis De Lafayette. He resigned in his 
favor, and Lafayette was Commander until his return 
to France, when he resigned in favor of Mr. Clinton, 
who remained Grand Commander to the day of his 
death, which happened in February, 1828. 

Although the persecution, which raged from 1827 up 
to 1838, had prostrated nearly every Masonic body in 
the North, yet the Council was still kept up. Previous 
to the death of Mr. Clinton, he had confirmed the ap- 
pointment of Mr. Henry C. Atwood as Sov.\ Gr.\ Ins.*. 
Gen'l.\, and after his demise, Mr. Atwood filled his 
place, continuing the same up to the year 1851, when 
he resigned in favor of Jeremy L. Cross, who received 
his patent from the Charleston Council in 1824. Mr. 
Cross is now Grand Commander for the Northern Ma- 
sonic Jurisdiction. 

The Council, during its existence, has chartered 
Triple Alliance Chapter, of Rose-Croix, sitting in the 
valley of New York, November, 1807, although that 
Chapter had been in existence since 1792, working under 
foreign authority; also Lafayette Chapter in 1824, in 
honor of Marquis de Lafayette, and in which Chapter 
he received the sublime degrees. It has also established 



106 INEFFABLE DEGREES. 

several foreign Councils, among the number of whioh is 
the Sup.*. Gr.\ Council at Lima, Peru. 

During its existence it has numbered among its mem- 
bers some of the most respectable men in the country, 
and of whom the Masonic fraternity may be justly 
proud. 

John W. Mulligan, Esq., R. W. Past Dep. Grand 
Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, 
and former Surrogate of the City and County. 

Hon. Cadivallader D. Golden, former Mayor of the 
City of New York, Member of Congress, and Past 
Sen. Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge. 

Hon. De Witt Clinton, former Governor of State, &c. 
&c, M. W. P. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of State N. Y. 

Marquis de Lafayette. 

Ellas Hicks, Esq., Past Grand Secretary of G. L., 
State of New York. 

Thomas Lowndes, Esq., who may be called the old 
Patriarch of the Masonic bodies in this State. 

Oliver M. Lowndes, Esq., the son and former Sheriff 
of City and County, Past Grand Secretary of the Grand 
Lodge, S. N. Y. 

Hon. Morgan Leivis, former Governor, and M. W. 
Past Grand Master of G. L. 

Hon. Martin Hoffman, M. W. P. G. Master of Grand 
Lodge of S. N. Y. 

We have merely mentioned these names as prominent 
among a great number which could be produced, to 
show that the existence of a regular Supreme Council 
of the 33d, in the city of New York, is not a fable, and 
that the assertions made by various interested parties 
are without the least shadow of truth. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 



Pentagon. 



Hexagon. 



Heptagon. 



Octagon. 



Nonagon. 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 



Rafodam. 




Square of Nine. 



9 


9 


9 


27 

27 
27 


9 


9 


9 


9 


9 


9 


27 27 27 


81 



81 



INEFFABLE DEGREES. 3 


3W.of _ ' 
j; fequare of Nine. 




B. 6 

N. 5 
P. 8 
S. 11 
K. 8 
M. 14 
G. 7 
M. 7 
A. 6 


J 


r 


^1 


L 


J 


J 


J 


3 


D 


Alliance. 


J 


F1 


< 


3 


E 


Fl 


J 


D 


L 


Promise. 


n 


F 


r 


3 


C 


J 


□ 


.E 


L 


Perfection. 


a 


< 


3 


L 


J 


J 


J 


J 


3 


Running 
Water. 


i 


J 


3 


□ 


J 


J 


E 


EJ 


1 


Mercy of 
God. 


3 





J 


L 


3 


U 


E 


1 


1 


Eureka. 
Favorite. 
Silence. 
Eternal. 


E 


J 


3 


E 


E 


< 


J 


E 


V 


j 


E 


1 


L 


J 


3 


3 


J 


3 


Li 


1 


B 


Fl 


3 


J 


J 





3 


72 
9 






81 























4 INEFFABLE DEGREES. 




ORDER OF CONFERRING DEGREES. 






9 Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry. 




E. A. | F. C. | M. M. 


M. M. P. M. | M. E. M. 


R. A. | R. M. | S. M. 


11 of the Ineffable Degrees. 


S. M. | P. M. | I. S. 


P. and J. | I. of the B. | E. of N. 


111. E. of 15. | S. K. E. | G. M. A. 


K. S. R. A. | G. E. P. and S. M. 


3 Orders of Knighthood. 


K. R. C. | K. T. | K. ofM. 


19 Ineffable Degrees. 


K.oftheE.&S.| P. of J. |KoftheE&W 


K of R C. de H| G. P. P. K. | G. M. S. L. 


P. N. P. of L. | C. of the T. 


P. of the T. | K. ofB. S. | P. ofM. 


C of the T.. | K. of the. S. | P. of the C. 


K-H. G. E. K.| G. J. C. | S. P. R. S. 


S. G. I. G. of the 33d Degree. 






+ 



SECRET MASTER, 




INTIMATE SECRETARY. 



E. 



W ■»♦- \0 •».♦„ \0 \* H/ \* 

vr -i* 0C *i* *%* *>*" ">r if 




N 



S. 






H. K. T. 




w \t w j/ j»/ .w j>>„ J/. J4, 
">r "«>%■ *">* *\ *\ *\ *\ *\ '» 

W. 



10 



INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING. 











**####### 



ELECT OF NINE. 



11 




T 



SUBLIME KNIGHT ELECT. 



.11 

A O A 



13 




J. S. T. M. A. D. 

TTTTTT 

liiiii 

If— tar 

K. B. T. T. B. T. 



K A -E 



14 



GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT. 








pi'i'.i'i'i'i'i'i'i'j'rq 



KING SOLOMON S ROYAL ARCH. 



15 





I bL> 




16 GRAND ELECT, PERFECT AND SUBLIME MASON. 






PRINCE OF JERUSALEM. 



21 



A O A 




KNIGHTS OF ROSE CROIX DE H. 



23 



Eleven L, 



Eleven L. 




Eleven L 



EEEEfa 



26 



GRAND PONTIFF PRUSSIAN KNIGHT. 



E. 



N. 



-V J" _>/. J»' J»/. Ji* 
~c * " *\ *\ « /"I 



V/_ J/ J>/_ J</_ J/^ J*^ 

pr "c "#%■ *c m /% 



-JVV- 



W. 



30 



PATRIARCH NOACHITE. 






PRINCE OF LIBANUS. 



31 




.1. A. C. D. X.Z. A. 




32 



CHIEF OF THE TABERNACLE. 









CHIEF OF THE TABERNACLE 





ewm 



v: 



"wimw 



■m- 




>' 




KNIGHTS OF THE BRAZEN" SERPENT. 35 





v.&c. 





COMMANDER OF THE TEMPLE. 37 





# 
# 
* 




i 



# # # 




T 



PATRIARCH OF THE CRUSADES. 



89 





81 
L. 




40 K-H. GRAND ELECT KNIGHT. 




Victory or Death. 



The Will of God. 




K-H. GRAND ELECT KNIGHT. 



41 




Ak=^==^ 



46 SUPREME COUNCIL OF G. I. G. OF THE 33d DEGREE. 





Universi Terrarum Orbis Architectonis 
per Gloriam Ingentis. 

DEUS MEUMQUE JUS. 

ORDO AB CHAO. 

Health, Stability, Power. 



©L ^k 




